Ilkay Gündogan could be the unexpected protagonist in the final stretch of the summer transfer market for FC Barcelona. As SPORT reported , the player has asked to leave the club and a footballer with his professionalism does not make a decision of this kind without deep reflection.
Gündogan could remain in Barça’s comfort zone with one more year on his contract , with another optional, and earning one of the highest salaries in the squad. This would be the easy way out, but the German international has doubts about his role in the sporting aspect.
The midfielder arrived at FC Barcelona as captain of City and the German national team. His influence in the world of football is undeniable, but at 33 years of age he has seen some movements at the Blaugrana club that cause him some discomfort.
The signing of Dani Olmo, a player who shone as a midfielder in the last European Championship , with a large investment of 45 million euros plus targets could leave Gündogan with fewer minutes than desired.
Gündogan was the player who played the most games last season, with 51, and also accumulated the most minutes, 4,180 . The player shone especially in the final stretch of last season and finished with good numbers: 5 goals and 14 assists . In addition to the statistical data, he conveyed the impression that he was a leader on the field and capable of making a difference in the three-quarter area.
However, this season’s scenario is very different. Dani Olmo can adapt to any position, but where he likes to play the most and excels is as a ’10’ , just where ‘Gündo’ is most productive.
This playmaker position, which Raphinha played against Valencia, is ideal for Olmo , who is not yet registered, but Barça would obtain the necessary salary margin precisely if Gündogan leaves.
Pedri is another player who is very efficient behind the striker, as is Fermin , a whirlwind who is resting after his participation in the Olympic Games, but who is destined to play an important role on his return. And in the longer term, Gavi appears, whose return could be at the end of October after his serious injury.
Gündogan can also help in the double pivot, but his game is already more conditioned by defensive tasks that do not allow him to exploit his best qualities . With Frenkie de Jong as a fixed pivot when he is fit, Casadó or Bernal can be the second pivot or also Pedri, who is used to these tasks.
The player does not want to be a problem for Barça and the club would facilitate his departure. Gündogan has also perceived that his departure would be welcomed by the club’s offices in order to lighten the wage bill.
All these issues were discussed with Hansi Flick, who was understanding with the player . For his part, the coach will not oppose his departure if the player wishes, although he fully counted on him.
Gündogan could be granted a free transfer and leave freely for a new team . His Ottoman roots could lean towards Galatasaray or Fenerbahce, without ruling out one of the outrageous offers from Saudi Arabia.
In any case, Gündogan wants to finish his time at Barça like a gentleman and his positive attitude towards the team will not change . He has already posted a message on social media of joy for FC Barcelona’s victory in Valencia and will give his all in the Barça shirt until his future is resolved.
He was not in a condition to play against Valencia due to the injury he sustained against Monaco and if negotiations drag on or the transfer deal falls through, Gündogan will be fully available to Hansi Flick against Athletic on the second day of the league.
