Speaking before the Champions League meeting, he said he had made a positive start but needed more time to understand his team-mates and Barcelona’s demands.
“I’d give myself a seven or 7.5. I started very well, considering the change of club, country and team. I can do more. It will take me time to settle in, and when I do you will see the best of me. You haven’t seen it yet,” he said.
Gordon expects a difficult contest against Aston Villa, praising Unai Emery’s side and the quality of their squad.
“They are a very good team, with great players. They have one of the best managers in the world. They are in a good moment. It will be a challenge, but I’m looking forward to facing them,” he said.
Gordon said the Barcelona dressing room had made him feel welcome, with English-speaking team-mates, including Eric, helping him settle.
The winger is adjusting to the expectations at Barcelona, where the objective is to challenge for every major trophy.
“Here there is more pressure, but I want to win everything and this club allows me to do that,” he said. “Being consistent is the biggest challenge in football and in life. I try to do what works for me: having a good routine, reading and giving everything.”
Gordon knows he must become more decisive in the final third, taking on defenders and shooting more often rather than always looking to pass.
“I demand goals and assists from myself, to be the player who changes the course of a game. I can do more, be more selfish and not pass the ball so much. I need to try to dribble more and score more goals. I am here to win trophies,” he said.
He also defended Barcelona after their recent defeats, arguing that their opponents had not been superior and that the team needed to take responsibility for failing to perform at its best.
“I don’t think they have been better. We have to accept responsibility, but they are not above us. We can beat anyone. We should have won the Clásico; we had more chances, but we weren’t at our level,” he said.
Away from football, reading, walking and spending time in nature help Gordon switch off. He said he has always enjoyed fiction and tries to avoid the constant stimulation of social media.
“Reading helps me calm down, regulate myself and stop. If you go on TikTok or Instagram, your mind is switched on. I like being quiet, reading, walking and being in nature. It calms me and allows me to be more grateful. Dopamine takes you away from what matters,” he said.
Gordon added that the connection he has found with Barcelona supporters had surprised him. Their welcome has made him want to give more in return, and he hopes to repay their support with goals and trophies.