Barcelona have been told what to expect from Anthony Gordon ahead of his transfer to the club from Newcastle United.
Former Newcastle team-mate Matt Ritchie says the winger is “laser-focused” on fulfilling his potential and has the “edge and controlled arrogance” need to succeed at the highest level.
“It’s his work ethic and application, He’s laser-focused on being the best he can be,” he told BBC Sport.
“Working with Eddie [Howe] and all the coaches in Newcastle, he couldn’t have fallen into better
hands in that regard.
“Knowing Ant how I know him, he dreams big, he thinks big and you can see with his personality on the pitch.”
The transfer has caught many by surprise but Ritchie thinks Gordon can thrive at Barcelona.
“He became a team player but will always have that edge and controlled arrogance, which all these top players have, so I’m not surprised he’s moving on to a club with the stature of Barcelona,” he added.
“That will be a challenge he will relish to take his game to the next level. I don’t think the stage or badge will change him as a person. He will always have this inner drive, this mentality, to be the best.”
Gordon has already arrived in Barcelona for a medical, with the transfer expected to be completed this week.
