Gordon Finally Steps into the Frame. Debut in Basel?

FC Barcelona may finally be able to show Anthony Gordon on the pitch instead of only in presentation photos and transfer announcements. The English winger has travelled to Switzerland with the squad and has been selected for Sunday’s friendly against FC Basel.

Gordon signed for Barcelona at the end of May, but his participation in the World Cup delayed the start of his preseason under Hansi Flick. This is his first matchday trip with the club. A place in the starting eleven is not guaranteed, although his debut now looks very likely.

The timing is interesting because Ferran Torres has just completed his move to Paris Saint-Germain. Flick has lost a player who could operate both out wide and through the middle. Gordon is primarily a left winger, but Barcelona’s official profile also highlights his ability to play as a centre-forward. His first appearance may offer an early clue about the role Flick has prepared for him.

Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Pau Cubarsí, Eric García and Joan García have also travelled to Basel. Pedri and Gavi have stayed behind as part of their individual fitness programmes.

This will be Barcelona’s penultimate test before the competitive season begins. Following a 2–2 draw against Birmingham City and shortened matches against Nottingham Forest and Udinese, Flick needs more than another preseason exercise. He needs to start finding out how his reshaped attack will actually work. Announcing a signing takes one statement. Building a functioning team usually takes a little longer.

FC Basel will face FC Barcelona on Sunday, 16 August at 4:30 p.m. CEST at St. Jakob-Park. According to Mundo Deportivo, the match will be available through a paid stream on Barça Play and the club’s official YouTube channel, although availability may vary by country.

Barcelona will then face Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy on Wednesday. After that, the friendlies are over and Gordon’s real examination begins.