Javier Aguirre recalled his amusing touchline altercation with Anthony Gordon during the 2026 World Cup while being officially presented as Valencia’s new head coach, as the pair prepare to face each other once again in La Liga.
The incident took place during England’s 3–2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup round of 16, when Gordon provoked the Mexico manager with gestures near the sideline, prompting an angry English response from Aguirre inside his technical area.
Aguirre reflected on the moment as a silly reaction born out of match tension, emphasizing that he embraced Gordon warmly after the final whistle and possesses a memorable photograph with the player, which he joked he might ask the Barcelona winger to sign for his sons.
The Mexican manager humorously added that he would cover his mouth when speaking to Gordon in their upcoming encounter, before noting that the English attacker speaks Spanish fluently.
Aguirre has taken charge of Valencia until the end of the season with an option for an additional year. Los Che currently sit second from bottom with just four points from their opening seven matches, with Aguirre set to make his debut on the bench against Racing Santander on October 11.
Meanwhile, Gordon has featured in seven matches for Barcelona following his transfer from Newcastle United for a reported €70 million plus €10 million in add-ons. While yet to find the back of the net, the winger has already registered five assists.
The anticipated reunion between the pair is scheduled for January 31, 2027, when Barcelona host Valencia at Spotify Camp Nou on Matchday 22 of La Liga.
