This Monday, Ilkay Gündogan was presented to FC Barcelona. After visiting the facilities and taking a trip to the Blaugrana club museum to immerse himself in the club’s culture, the midfielder officially signed his contract alongside president Joan Laporta. A symbolic moment for the former Manchester City player, very impatient to take up this new challenge in Catalonia. He also mentioned his choice and his exchanges with Pep Guardiola. “It was by phone, during the holidays. He was the first to get the information from me, directly. I explained everything to him and expressed my gratitude to him and to the club. I think he is also happy that I come to this club he loves so much. He wished me the best, he is a big Barça fan. He told me that if I needed anything I could call him whether it was advice or whatever I needed.” Then he talked about his exchanges with Xavi, the man for whom he was the priority and who convinced him to sign.
“From the first moment we spoke with Xavi, I felt it was the right thing to do here. It will be a challenge, everything will be new, but I hope to adapt to a new team and a new country. I have a lot to prove and I will help the team to level up. The mix between young people and veterans, all of quality, is essential. But he is not the only one with whom he exchanged. Robert Lewandowski also played a role. “I spoke to him during a game between Germany and Poland. His eyes sparkled when he talked about the club and the city. It didn’t take much to convince me, but it was a conversation that helped me. Same with Ter Stegen. My decision was pretty clear to come here.” That is what is said!
