Anthony Gordon has spoken openly about his experiences across competitions this season.
The Newcastle United winger reflected on how games feel rather than focusing on results or statistics.
His comments centred on the contrast between Premier League and Champions League football.
Gordon has sparked fresh discussion about the direction of the modern English game, which many fans are concerned about.
Anthony Gordon explains his criticism of Premier League football
Gordon believes the Premier League has shifted toward a far more physical and transitional style, which has changed how matches are decided.
He feels the constant intensity makes it difficult for teams to settle into a rhythm or impose sustained periods of possession.
“I think in the Champions League, teams are much more open. They all try to play; it’s less transitional,” Gordon said, when explaining the contrast he has felt this season.
“I think, in the Premier League, it’s become more physical than I’ve ever known it to be. It’s like a basketball game sometimes; it’s so relentless physically.”
According to Gordon, that relentless pace often turns games into running contests rather than technical battles, where structure and control can quickly disappear.
“There is not much control, it’s a running game, and sometimes it’s about duels: who wins the duels, wins the game,” he added.
“The Champions League is a bit more of an older style of game; it’s a bit more football-based. Teams come and try to play proper football.
“In the Premier League now, you have seen a lot more long throw-ins and set-pieces. It’s become a lot slower and a lot more set-piece-based, I would say.”
Newcastle’s contrasting Premier League and Champions League form
Newcastle’s season has provided a clear context for Gordon’s comments, particularly when comparing their domestic and European performances.
After 23 Premier League games, Eddie Howe’s side sit ninth, a position that has fallen short of expectations given last season’s progress.
Consistency has been difficult to maintain in a league Gordon describes as relentless, where momentum can shift quickly, and physical demands rarely drop.
However, in the Champions League, Newcastle have looked far more comfortable in possession and structure.
They sit seventh in the league phase with one game remaining against Paris Saint-Germain, knowing a strong performance could define their European campaign.
Against Champions League opposition, Newcastle have often found more space and time on the ball, reflecting many of the points Gordon raised.
