Barcelona’s direct attacking competitors share strong camaraderie over rivalry | OneFootball

Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi were Barcelona’s star signings of the summer to reinforce the attack, and both players have started off strongly.

While Gordon began the season as the manager’s preferred option and did well in his initial appearances, his minor slump in form allowed Karim Adeyemi to enjoy a starting role.

In his minutes, the former Borussia Dortmund man left a strong impression, and the manager now has a situation where he sees both players as worthy starters – thus seemingly creating a rivalry.

Camaraderie over rivalry

Now, as confirmed by Mundo Deportivo in a recent update, the relationship between Gordon and Adeyemi is not one of rivalry but of camaraderie.

The two players have a certain understanding and chemistry that allows them to push each other to be better.

Gordon has had a slump in recent games. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

The duo understand that there will be a distribution of minutes between them without any clear preference in terms of a starting role, and they thus remain positive and prepared for when their chances arrive.

At this point, the situation between Gordon and Adeyemi is similar to that between Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo, where both players are worthy starters but neither is a clear favourite over the other.

An incident in the recent game

When Barcelona took on Sevilla in their most recent outing, Gordon was seen in low spirits during the time when Andreas Christensen was being attended to for his injury. With his head down and hand on his waist, it was clear he was unhappy with his performance.

Adeyemi has been phenomenal for Barcelona. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

At that moment, Adeyemi noticed Gordon in low spirits and approached him amidst his warm-up, handed him water and had a conversation with him to urge him to play with confidence.

He was egaveen gesturing some tactical ideas on the flank and encouraging the player to take on his man and make dribbles. He also handed Gordon a high-five to boost his confidence.

If anything, the aforementioned incident shows the camaraderie between the two players and confirms that they have a great rapport at this point in time. 

Needless to say, it is a massive boost for Flick and Co. to have an atmosphere that promotes friendship over rivalry between direct competitors.