German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan completed his switch to FC Barcelona to try a new challenge in the Spanish League. The composed midfielder was one of Xavi’s primary targets to bolster his midfield after the departure of Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets. The 32-year-old switched from ex-Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City ending his successful period in the United Kingdom.
The former Borussia Dortmund player will be looking to take the FC Barcelona challenge head-on. Under the coaching of ex-player and captain Xavi, FC Barcelona has consistently improved after lackluster performances a few seasons earlier. With a place in the UEFA Champions League secured, the Blaugranas have a season filled with pressure ahead of them.
Gundogan excited to be part of Barcelona’s potential and success
Ilkay Gundogan has played in 3 of the 5 major leagues in Europe and was successful in all his soccer clubs. The player was an important player at the Etihad, becoming the first City captain to lift the UEFA Champions League. As a matter of fact, Ilkay scored a lot of essential goals during his time at City, earning him the reputation of a big-game player.
First day in Barcelona as a Culer ✅ pic.twitter.com/L0YHRbPV8t
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 15, 2023
The German has spoken to the club’s media for the first time after his transfer to Catalunya. Gundo admitted that playing for the Blaugranas was one of his childhood dreams, as he watched the club succeed under Frank Rijkaard and his ex-manager Pep Guardiola. The 32-year-old midfielder was awed by Barcelona’s Spotify Arena stadium.
Gundogan portrayed excitement after looking at the potential of the club to succeed. He spoke about aiming to bring his experience to shore up the midfield and help players like Gavi and Pedri to develop into world-class midfielders. The player added that the midfield already has a “strong base” to succeed, and he is determined and motivated to transition this potential into a threat come next season.
Get to know our new player! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/VyJAxxIjHG
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 15, 2023
How many trophies did Ilkay Gundogan win for Manchester City?
Ilkay Gundogan was highly successful in his 7-year career as a City player, winning all there was to win in England with the Spanish tactical mastermind Pep Guardiola. The German won 12 trophies with the Citizens, which included 5 Premier League Titles, 2 FA Cups, 4 League Cups, and the UEFA Champions League.
Gundogan was the club captain as Manchester City became the second club from England to win a treble, after beating Inter-Milan at Istanbul in the final. Gundogan was the man of the match in the FA Cup final against Manchester United, scoring two outrageous goals to sink local rivals and lift the FA Cup.
How well do you think Ilkay Gundogan will fare in Spain? Let us know your opinions in the comments section.
