Ilkay Gundogan has explained why he has joined Barcelona from Manchester City, explaining that he wants to help improve the club’s
WHY DID THIS HAPPEN? Gundogan left City after winning the treble with Pep Guardiola last season, moving as a free agent after his contract at the Etihad Stadium expired. He has since clarified that he is thrilled to join such a youthful team and hopes to help players like Gavi, Pedri, and Ansu Fati realise their full potential.
WHAT THEY SAID: Gundogan said, “It’s a dream come true, after arriving in Barcelona. Since seeing the Barca as a youngster under Pep and (Frank) Rijkaard, I have been a close fan of the team for almost all of the seasons. I’ve obviously visited this place a few times, played here, and attended as a spectator. As a result, I feel quite pleased and delighted to be a member of this club.
“I expect great football, I think there’s a lot of potential in the team, we have a very young squad and I hope that I can, with my experience, help the younger players to bring them to the next level, I think the base is there, the potential is there, we just need to show it next season and that’s why I came, that’s why I joined. I’m full of motivation and dedication.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE: While City dominated everything they faced last season, Barcelona was just as dominant in La Liga, taking the title by 10 points over Real Madrid in second place. Gundogan already has the German and English league titles under his belt, and he plans to add the Spanish top division to his impressive collection of hardware.
AFTER THAT? Gundogan will hope to play in Barcelona’s preseason matches against teams like Juventus, Arsenal, and Tottenham.
