Anthony Gordon has urged England to stop trying to replicate Spain's possession-based style, arguing that controlling games is not in the English "DNA." Speaking at St George's Park ahead of Saturday's match against the world champions at Wembley, the Barcelona winger reflected on England's World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina. Head coach Thomas Tuchel substituted Gordon after his goal and switched to a back five, inviting pressure that led to a stoppage-time defeat. Gordon described the loss as a "scar" that could drive future success if the team embraces its own strengths rather than imitating opponents.

The £69.3m summer signing from Newcastle United says his experience in La Liga confirmed the stylistic gap. He insists English players possess different qualities than Spanish stars like Lionel Messi's World Cup-winning side, which dominated possession and restricted Argentina to two off-target shots in the final. England have lost two consecutive European Championship finals and recent World Cup knockout games to France and Argentina, raising questions about game management against elite nations.

Gordon, who started five games and provided four assists at the World Cup, admitted surprise at his substitution against Argentina. He explained he plays "off adrenaline" after scoring, entering an "untouchable mode of confidence," though acknowledged wingers are frequently substituted. England will look for a response against Spain this weekend without copying their approach.