Anthony Gordon didn’t mince words when talking about the Premier League physicality that wears teams down week after week. The Newcastle winger opened up ahead of their big Champions League showdown against PSG at Parc des Princes.
He pointed out how the English top flight leans heavily on long throw-ins, endless set pieces, and a grinding pace that slows everything to a crawl. In contrast, he called European nights more like basketball – fast, open, and all about real football.
Gordon spoke to reporters on the eve of the match, with Newcastle needing a strong result to lock in a top-eight spot for direct entry to the round of 16. Right now, the Magpies sit seventh in the Champions League table with 13 points from seven games.
Back home in the Premier League, things look tougher – ninth place, 33 points after 23 matches. A win or draw in Paris could keep their European dream alive without extra playoffs.
The 23-year-old has felt the difference himself. In Europe, space opens up, runs flow better, and attackers get room to breathe. But in the Premier League? Defenders crowd you, matches turn into battles, and the ball spends too much time out of play.
Gordon mentioned how teams drill on stopping quick players like him – physical challenges and tight marking are all part of the game plan. Ball-in-play time hovers around 55 minutes in many games, which is among the lowest in top leagues.
Fans jumped on his comments right away. Online forums lit up with agreement from some, calling the Premier League “anti-football” or straight-up “rugby on grass”.
They blame managers who prioritise set pieces over flowing moves – think Arsenal’s corners or Brentford’s throw-in routines. Others pushed back, saying that’s what makes English football exciting and competitive. No easy games; every point was earned the hard way.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has navigated this style all season. Injuries piled up early, forcing rotations and cautious play. Yet in Europe, the same squad looks sharper, more attacking.
Gordon thrives there, linking up with teammates in open spaces that rarely appear domestically. A top-eight finish would mean avoiding those tricky playoff ties and heading straight to the knockout stage.
PSG bring star power and home advantage, but Newcastle showed last time they met that they can compete on big stages. Fans travelled in numbers, black and white scarves waving despite the cold January night. For Gordon and company, it’s a chance to play the kind of football he loves – quick transitions, end-to-end action.
Gordon’s honesty struck a chord because many feel it. Young attackers dream of dribbling past defenders in open fields, not wrestling for every yard. Gordon, with his pace and direct running, will be key. If he gets space like in Champions League games, PSG might have a long night.
This clash highlights the contrast Gordon described. Premier League survival demands grit and organisation. Champions League rewards creativity and risk. Newcastle want both worlds – tough at home, flashy abroad.
Whatever the result, Gordon’s words sparked conversation. Football evolves, and styles shift. For now, the physical grind defines England’s top division, whether fans love it or hate it. In Paris, Newcastle aims to remind everyone they can play any way needed.
Supporters packed pubs back in the Northeast, debating the same points. Some nod along with Gordon, wishing for more open games. Others wear the physical tag as a badge – that’s what sets the Premier League apart.
One way or another, this PSG tie tests Newcastle’s progress. Secure the top eight, and deeper runs become possible. Fall short, and playoffs await. Gordon and his teammates know what’s at stake. The winger’s comments add spice to an already tense buildup. Physical or fluid – tonight shows which version of Newcastle turns up.
