The UEFA Champions League has a magical way of creating new heroes. Every season, a previously unheralded player steps onto the grandest stage in European football and seizes the moment, capturing the attention of fans around the world with performances that announce their arrival among the elite.
According to former England and Chelsea star Joe Cole, this season’s breakout star could be wearing the black and white stripes of Newcastle United.
Cole has pointed to Magpies winger Anthony Gordon as the player he believes is ready to shine brightest under the European lights.
This is not just empty praise from a pundit. Gordon has rapidly developed into one of the most important and exciting players in Eddie Howe’s squad since his arrival at the club.
His direct style of play, incredible pace, and fearless approach to taking on defenders make him a constant threat.
For a team like Newcastle that loves to attack with speed and intensity, Gordon is the perfect weapon. Joe Cole believes that this specific skill set is exactly what will cause major problems for opponents throughout the Champions League campaign.
Cole’s confidence extends beyond just one player; he has high expectations for the entire team. He has suggested that Newcastle United could be the surprise package of this season’s tournament.
They are a team built on a strong collective spirit, a high-energy style, and a fearless attitude, qualities that can sometimes unsettle more established European giants.
Their group stage draw has given them a tough start, pitting them immediately against the reigning Spanish champions, Barcelona. But history offers a glimmer of hope for the Magpies faithful.
The last time Barcelona visited St James’ Park was in 1997, and it resulted in one of the most famous nights in the club’s history.
On that evening, the magical Faustino Asprilla scored a stunning hat-trick to secure a memorable 3-2 victory.
While replicating that feat is a tall order, it serves as a powerful reminder that on their home turf, with their passionate supporters behind them, Newcastle is capable of anything.
For Anthony Gordon, the timing of this fixture could be perfect. He was forced to sit out Newcastle’s recent Premier League win over Wolverhampton Wanderers due to a suspension, meaning he will head into the Barcelona match completely fresh and rested.
While other players might be feeling the effects of a busy schedule, Gordon will be eager, energized, and ready to make up for lost time.
Although his statistical output of goals and assists is yet to get going this season, his overall contribution to the team’s play is undeniable.
His quality has been recognized by some of the biggest names in the game. Football pundit and Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has previously described him as “one of the best” players in the Premier League, a significant compliment.
England and Manchester United great Wayne Rooney has also been full of praise for Gordon’s development and his impact on the pitch.
These endorsements highlight the immense potential that everyone sees in him.
Now, the stage is set for him to transform that potential into legendary status. The Champions League is where players truly announce themselves to the world, and a strong performance against a club of Barcelona’s stature would be the perfect way to do it.
For Anthony Gordon, this is his moment. He has the talent, the platform, and the opportunity to become the breakout star that Joe Cole believes he can be. The entire football world will be watching to see if he can deliver.
