Barcelona choose Gordon’s energy over Rashford’s price tag

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco explained that the club needed a burst of energy after a sluggish spell without Raphinha, prompting them to bypass a £26 million option on Marcus Rashford and instead secure Anthony Gordon for £70 million from Newcastle United this summer.

The story was reported by BEN WILLCOCKS, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR, on 10 September 2026.

Deco told that the side’s energy dipped noticeably when Raphinha was absent, leaving a void on the wing that the Catalan giants felt needed filling.

Deal sealed for £70m

Barcelona exercised their summer budget to bring Gordon to the Nou Camp, paying £70 million, while the £26 million clause for Rashford was left unused, sending the Manchester United forward back to Old Trafford for the 2026‑27 season.

Spain secures quarter‑final spot, England chase promotion in London

Since joining, Gordon has delivered five assists in just four LaLiga appearances, signalling a swift adaptation to football in Spain after representing England at the World Cup.

The £150 million summer investment, which also included Rodri, Bernardo Silva, Gabriel Jesus and Karim Adeyemi, has seen Barcelona sit atop LaLiga after four wins and a 5‑1 Champions League victory over Feyenoord.

Raphinha locks in long‑term deal as Barcelona look to 2030

Barcelona’s next challenge arrives on Sunday away at Levante, while Rashford aims to cement his place at Manchester United ahead of their Champions League tie with Sabah.