Anthony Gordon Defies Public Opinion

Morgan Winslow

Published: January 27, 2026 2:25 PM ET

Anthony Gordon, the Newcastle United winger, is making waves in the current Champions League season with six goals. He trails only Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane in the tournament’s scoring tally. Gordon believes that the Champions League provides an exhilarating platform that motivates players to excel.

Gordon’s Champions League Journey

As Newcastle sits in seventh place with 13 points, a win at the Parc des Princes would secure their spot in the knockout stages automatically. Gordon expressed his fondness for the Champions League, stating it is the ultimate competition in football. He remarked, “Every player grows up wanting to play in this competition.”

Scoring Performance

This season, Gordon has not only excelled in the Champions League but has also scored twice in the Premier League and once in the FA Cup. He is just one goal shy of hitting double digits across all competitions. When questioned about his goal-scoring prowess predominantly in Europe, he admitted, “I don’t have an answer for you, unfortunately.” Gordon is focused on doing his best in every match, regardless of the competition.

Handling Pressure and Expectations

Throughout his career, Gordon has faced scrutiny and elevated expectations. He noted that players are often judged by the performances of elite defenders they face. “I know people expect a lot from me, but they’re also quite good players themselves,” he stated. Gordon chooses to distance himself from social media, focusing instead on his intrinsic motivation.

Match Insights and Historical Context

Newcastle’s recent history against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) adds an extra layer of intensity to their upcoming clash. In October 2023, Newcastle famously defeated PSG 4-1 at St. James’ Park. However, the return match in Paris ended controversially with a 98th-minute penalty awarded to PSG.

Match History:
- October 2023: Newcastle 4 – 1 PSG (St. James’ Park)
- Return Match: PSG equalized via a controversial late penalty.

Reflecting on these encounters, Gordon described the first match as thrilling due to the atmosphere and team spirit. Meanwhile, the second encounter was marked by frustration despite an admirable performance from his team.

Facing Elite Opposition

As they prepare for their next challenge against PSG, Gordon acknowledges the caliber of players like Achraf Hakimi, who he considers “the best I’ve played against.” He emphasized that Newcastle’s focus remains on executing their game plan effectively.

Gordon’s determination and focus on self-motivation are central to his approach as Newcastle gears up for another compelling match in the Champions League. With significant stakes involved, the team aims to continue its strong showing and make a mark against the reigning European champions.