Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli is heavily rumored to be a transfer target for Newcastle, as they look to replace Anthony Gordon, who ended up leaving the club for Barcelona recently. We are thus going to compare both the players here in this article.
Eddie Howe could be preparing to bring in one of La Liga's most exciting dribblers in the form of Abde Ezzalzouli to replace Gordon. While both players primarily operate from the left wing, their styles differ significantly, meaning Newcastle may gain a different attacking dimension rather than a like-for-like replacement.
Who is Abde Ezzalzouli?
Born in Beni Mellal, Morocco, in 2001, Abdessamad "Abde" Ezzalzouli moved to Spain at a young age and developed through several local academies before making his breakthrough with Hércules. His performances quickly attracted the attention of Barcelona, who signed him in 2021.
Abde impressed during his early appearances for Barcelona's first team, becoming the first Moroccan-born player to play for the club. However, fierce competition for places limited his opportunities, leading to a loan spell at Osasuna during the 2022/23 season. There, he showcased his attacking potential with a series of eye-catching displays in both La Liga and the Copa del Rey.
In 2023, Real Betis secured his signature permanently. Since then, the winger has continued his development, becoming one of Manuel Pellegrini's key attacking weapons. At the international level, Abde has represented Morocco at the FIFA World Cup, Africa Cup of Nations, and Olympic Games, establishing himself as an important figure for the Atlas Lions.
Now 24 years old, he enters what many consider the most important stage of his development, with Newcastle reportedly viewing him as a leading candidate to replace Gordon.
Abde Ezzalzouli vs Anthony Gordon: Similar Position, Different Profiles
At first glance, the two players appear similar. Both prefer operating from the left wing, possess explosive acceleration, and thrive in transition.
However, their strengths are quite different.
Anthony Gordon has become one of the Premier League's most effective high-intensity wingers under Eddie Howe. His game revolves around relentless pressing, intelligent off-ball movement, direct running behind defenders, and the ability to stretch defensive lines. Gordon is particularly effective in Newcastle's aggressive pressing system and excels at attacking space without the ball.
Abde, meanwhile, is a far more possession-oriented dribbler. His biggest strength is his ability to beat defenders in one-versus-one situations. The Moroccan loves receiving the ball wide, isolating full-backs, and driving directly at opponents. Rather than relying primarily on movement off the ball, he prefers creating danger through individual skill and close control.
In simple terms, Gordon often hurts teams through his movement and intensity, while Abde hurts teams through his creativity and dribbling.
What Could Abde Offer Eddie Howe's Newcastle?
Should Newcastle complete the signing, Howe would be adding a profile currently lacking in his squad.
Abde's greatest value lies in his unpredictability. He is the type of winger capable of unlocking deep defensive blocks through individual brilliance. Newcastle occasionally struggled against compact opponents, particularly when their pressing game failed to create transitions. Abde's ability to carry the ball into dangerous areas could provide an alternative route to goal.
His flair could also complement players such as William Osula and Bruno Guimarães. While Gordon often creates space through runs, Abde tends to attract multiple defenders, opening passing lanes for teammates.
Of course, there are areas where Gordon remains superior. The English winger's defensive work rate, pressing intensity, and tactical discipline are among the best in the Premier League. Abde would need time to adapt to the physical demands of English football and Howe's demanding system.
Nevertheless, Newcastle would not simply be replacing Gordon; they would be changing the profile of their attack. Instead of a relentless transition runner, they would gain a technically gifted dribbler capable of producing moments of magic in tight spaces.
If Eddie Howe wants greater creativity and unpredictability from the left flank, Abde Ezzalzouli could prove to be a fascinating addition at St. James' Park.
