Barcelona fans have been captivated by the arrival of English forward Anthony Gordon, and for good reason. The new Blaugrana signing brings much more than goals and pace to the pitch. Here are 10 things you probably didn't know about him—and some of them may surprise you.

FOOTBALLER AND… BOXER?

The 25-year-old striker has a deep passion for boxing. In fact, he actively practiced the sport until 2023 while playing for Newcastle United in the Premier League. Gordon took up boxing as a teenager in Liverpool, using it as an outlet for his energy, competitiveness, and aggression. Away from football, he also enjoys hunting, tennis, and horses, although he has stopped riding since becoming a professional footballer.

HIS FOOTBALL IDOLS

Always striving to be the best, Gordon has looked up to some of the game's biggest names. After beginning his football journey in Liverpool’s academy setup, he became a huge admirer of Steven Gerrard. Even after joining Everton at the age of 11, Gerrard remained his favorite player—ranking above even David Beckham, one of his childhood heroes.

ART PLAYS A BIG ROLE IN HIS LIFE

Gordon’s curiosity extends far beyond the football field. A passionate fan of painting and sculpture, he regularly visits museums and enjoys immersing himself in culture. Barcelona, with its rich artistic heritage, is the perfect city for someone eager to explore and be inspired by the arts.

CHECKMATE

Scoring goals is not the only game Gordon enjoys. He is also an enthusiastic chess player. He picked up the game to stay mentally engaged, remain calm, and improve his ability to think several moves ahead. He once played chess on the streets of New York and proudly considers himself one of the most experienced chess players in the England squad at UEFA Euro 2024—although he admits team doctor Matt Perry is the only person who has consistently beaten him. Poker and pool are among his favorite pastimes as well.

AN UNUSUAL LOVE STORY

Gordon has been in a relationship with Annie Keating for the past eight years. The professional makeup artist has known him since childhood, and the couple enjoys spending as much time together as possible.

“My girlfriend thinks I have severe ADHD because I have so many hobbies and I can’t sit still. I get obsessed with things. Whatever is on my mind for those two weeks, I buy all the equipment, research every detail, and that’s just who I am.”

A TRUE BOOKWORM

During his presentation as a Barcelona player, Gordon joked that he would start a book club because there is no bigger reader in the squad than him. Sports psychology is his favorite subject, and among his favorite books are Mentality Mamba by Kobe Bryant, Life Force by Tony Robbins, Winning by Tim Grover, The Art of Winning and Leadership by Dan Carter, and Never Finished by David Goggins.

THE COACHES WHO SHAPED HIM

During his three years under Frank Lampard at Everton, Gordon learned to block out criticism and focus on his development, a lesson that helped him become more effective in front of goal. He also holds Carlo Ancelotti in high regard, as the Italian manager handed him his professional debut in 2019. Now, it remains to be seen what influence Hansi Flick will have on the next chapter of his career.

THE MOTTO HE LIVES BY

Despite drawing inspiration from books, legendary players, and elite coaches, Gordon follows a simple mantra given to him by former Everton captain Leighton Baines:

“Never too high, never too low.”

It is a philosophy that has stayed with him throughout his career.

A FUTURE IN SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY?

While many footballers dream of becoming coaches or executives after retirement, Gordon has another path in mind. The Englishman has openly expressed interest in pursuing sports psychology professionally once his playing days are over. Considering his passion for the subject and extensive reading habits, he may already have a head start.

HIS OWN APPROACH TO FITNESS

Gordon likes doing things his own way. Unlike many elite athletes, his training routine does not focus heavily on weightlifting, as he believes it can increase the risk of injury. Instead, he prioritizes stretching, mobility work, and recovery. The approach has paid off, helping him stay healthy and avoid recurring physical issues. That is why it is common to see him practicing yoga as part of his preparation.

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