Gordon explains difference between LaLiga and Premier League after Barcelona move

Barcelona winger Anthony Gordon has explained the difference between the levels of LaLiga and the Premier League after arriving from Newcastle United.

Gordon, 25, has made an impressive start to life in LaLiga, making three assists in as many games. He provided two assists in Barca’s campaign-opening 5-0 win against Elche away in the Spanish top flight last month.

Gordon, who is yet to score for his new club, registered another assist in Hansi Flick’s side’s 5-2 win against Rayo Vallecano at home at the weekend.

"I’m not going to deny that the Premier League is incredibly intense," Gordon said.

"The rhythm is relentless. There are physical battles everywhere, long ball kicks, corner kicks and a lot of contact. That’s why many English players believe it is the best league in the world. They’re used to that kind of chaos."

Gordon, who arrived at Camp Nou this summer for a reported fee of £80, added that LaLiga is ahead than Premier League in terms of “tactical and technical intelligence”.

"I loved playing in the Premier League, and it played a huge role in my development, but Spanish football demands a different level of tactical and technical intelligence. In England, sometimes intensity can cover up mistakes. You can miscontrol the ball and still recover by winning the next physical battle,” Gordon added.

"Here, a bad first touch or a lack of concentration on your positioning can punish you immediately. The spaces are smaller; the decisions have to be faster, and everything must be cleaner."

Barca are at the top of the LaLiga table after three games, ahead of Real Madrid on goal difference.