Despite all the rumours galore, Barcelona boss Hansi Flick remains optimistic about midfielder Ilkay Gundogan opting to stay at the Catalan club itself.
Gundogan joined Barcelona on a free transfer from Manchester City last summer. He made 51 appearances during his debut season in Spain, providing five goals and 14 assists and was considered one of the side’s most consistent performers in a disappointing campaign.
His Barcelona contract runs until 2025, meaning that the German will leave by the end of next season potentially. But, especially with the addition of Spainish midfielder Dani Olmo, the move seems more imminent, as the German seems to have been replaced by a younger option.
The rumours were strengthen even more as reports from Sport stated that Gundogan had communicated his desire to leave Barcelona before the end of the summer transfer window.
The Germany international was subsequently been left out of the club’s squad to play Valencia in their La Liga opener, due to a minor injury. In doing so, he joined Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, Ronald Araujo, and Ansu Fati on the injury list, with youngster Fermin Lopez yet to return from his break after competing with Spain in the European Championship and Olympic Games this summer.
“(Gundogan) hurt his eyebrow on Monday and that’s why he’s staying at home,” Flick told reporters after the game.
“I appreciate what kind of player he is and what he is like as a person. I’ve talked to him a lot, but it’s something between me and him, we have a good relationship. I know him well. I have the feeling that he will stay,” he added.
Barcelona beat Valencia 2-1 in their season opener as Robert Lewandowski scored twice to hand Flick his first La Liga win as the new manager.
Barcelona will now host Athletic Club next in the La Liga clash on Saturday, August 24.
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