Anthony Gordon is becoming a true star

Following the major transfer to Barcelona, Anthony Gordon has made a strong impression with England and is anticipated to be a game-changer at the 2026 World Cup.

This could be Anthony Gordon's World Cup, even though he enters the tournament not as England's top star or a contender for the Golden Boot. All signs point to the new Barcelona signing standing at the brink of the biggest breakout moment of his career.

Against Costa Rica, Gordon played only 72 minutes but was the most outstanding figure in England's attack. He assisted Declan Rice for the opening goal and then scored himself from the penalty spot, playing a key role in the 3-0 victory.

His pace, boldness in one-on-one duels, ability to stretch defenses, and tireless work ethic make him the energy source for Thomas Tuchel's squad. On a day when Harry Kane failed to score and was barely involved in goalscoring plays, Gordon became the leader of the attack.

This is exactly what coach Tuchel wanted to see. For years, England has been built around Kane. But at the World Cup, the teams that go furthest often do not rely on a single individual. Gordon is providing the "Three Lions" with a different option—not a center-forward, not a "number 10," but someone capable of linking play and creating breakthroughs.

In fact, Gordon's journey to the 2026 World Cup is a remarkable story. Just a few years ago, he was a promising but inconsistent young talent. At Newcastle, he had periods of brilliant play but also faced questions about maintaining his form. However, the fierce competition of the Premier League helped him mature quickly.

This summer, after exploding with 10 goals in the Champions League, Barcelona decided to bring him to Camp Nou—a recognition that Gordon has reached a new level. In Hansi Flick's era, Barcelona isn't looking for a simple winger but for players who can make a difference in big games, those ready to attack spaces, apply constant pressure, and offer directness. Gordon fits those criteria perfectly.

The move to Barcelona also provided a psychological boost ahead of the World Cup. Instead of entering the tournament as a player seeking a spot, Gordon arrives as a star on the path to establishing his name at one of the world's biggest clubs. This factor is very important.

That is why the 2026 World Cup could be Gordon's tournament. At 25, he is entering his prime, with an ideal physical foundation, top-level experience, and confidence. What happened against Costa Rica shows that Gordon is no longer just a strategic substitute or a rotation option—he is genuinely competing for a starting role.

Under Thomas Tuchel, England has no star privileges. Jude Bellingham can also be benched; Phil Foden and Cole Palmer even stayed home. The German tactician builds his squad based on form and pressing intensity. He sees in Gordon the qualities that can give the "Three Lions" a boost on their quest for the golden trophy after 60 years of waiting.

North America could be the moment for the newly arrived Barcelona man to step out of the shadow of a promising talent and become a true star of world football.