Thomas Müller has commented on Anthony Gordon’s choice to move to FC Barcelona instead of FC Bayern.
The FCB icon alluded to the financial aspect playing a significant role in Gordon’s decision, stating in the Bild podcast ‘Bayern Insider’, «When Barcelona comes and FC Bayern. What is then decisive that Gordon doesn’t come to us?»
Gordon had emerged as Bayern’s preferred target for their offensive lineup in recent weeks. The 25-year-old is versatile and could have served as a challenger to Luis Diaz on the left wing or as a backup for Harry Kane in the central striker position.
However, it became definitively clear on Friday evening that Bayern would miss out on Gordon, with the English international instead joining Barcelona. At the Catalan club, Gordon has signed a five-year contract until 2031, with transfer fees, including bonuses, potentially reaching up to 80 million Euros to Newcastle United. Bayern were reportedly unwilling to match Barcelona’s transfer fee and had likely set a limit of around 60 million Euros.
Thomas Müller to Anthony Gordon: «I would go to Bayern»
Müller dismissed the idea that the allure of palm trees and the sea in Barcelona swayed Gordon’s decision, but he acknowledged the appeal of working under Barcelona coach Hansi Flick. «It’s really fun to play under him, both in terms of man-management and playing style,» said the 36-year-old, who played under Flick at Bayern for a year and a half and also knew the 61-year-old from his time as an assistant coach for the German national team and as head coach at the 2022 World Cup.
Müller, who left the German champions last summer after a total of 25 years at the club to join the Vancouver Whitecaps in MLS, ultimately drew a clear conclusion: «So I would go to Bayern.»
After Gordon’s Rejection: Who Will FC Bayern Sign for the Offense Now?
With Gordon’s signing, Barcelona addresses two squad areas. The Englishman can provide competition for Raphinha, who has been plagued by injuries this past season, on the left flank and also vies for the starting spot in the central striker role. Robert Lewandowski will not be there next season, making Ferran Torres Gordon’s main competitor at present. However, Barcelona is reportedly working hard to sign another prominent attacker, Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, who would create additional competition. In this regard, Atletico had caused a stir on Friday evening with numerous social media posts and made serious accusations against the Catalans.
The implications of Gordon’s signing for his compatriot Marcus Rashford remain unclear. The 28-year-old was on loan from Manchester United for the past season, and Barcelona could now sign the Englishman permanently for around 30 million Euros through a purchase option. Rashford would also like to stay, but his chances have diminished with the Gordon deal. Nevertheless, a permanent transfer of Rashford to Barca is not ruled out.
Meanwhile, Bayern must look elsewhere. In addition to Gordon, Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig has also been a prominent name, but he would be even more expensive at around 100 million Euros and is reportedly being pursued by two financially strong international top clubs, FC Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain. Absolut Bayern also recently brought Junior Kroupi from AFC Bournemouth into discussion, who however would likely cost a hefty 80 million Euros.
Anthony Gordon’s Move to FC Barcelona in Numbers
| Previous Club | Newcastle United |
|---|---|
| New Club | FC Barcelona |
| Transfer Fee | Up to 80 million Euros (including bonuses) |
| Contract at Barca until | June 30, 2031 |