Ilkay Gundogan Reflects on His Barcelona Exit and the Road Ahead

When you ask Ilkay Gündogan what it felt like to walk away from Barcelona after a whirlwind season, the answer comes wrapped in a mixture of admiration, gratitude and a dash of disbelief. The former Dortmund and Manchester City play‑maker told Mundo Deportivo that, despite the inevitable sting of a farewell, he leaves with a sense of fulfillment that few players can claim.

"It’s not every day you get to work under a legend like Xavi," he said, smiling as he recalled the early days in the Camp Nou dressing room. "His vision is pure Barcelona – possession, pressing, the whole philosophy. I learned a lot, and the lads responded with passion every single training."

But Gundogan was quick to point out that the real turning point arrived when Hansi Flick took over the bench. "Flick brought a different intensity, a Germanic discipline that complemented Xavi’s style. The blend made the team more balanced, and it helped me adapt my own game to the rhythm of La Liga," he explained.

Beyond the coaches, the German highlighted the rise of the teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. "Lamine is special. He’s got a maturity beyond his years, a natural elegance on the ball. Watching him grow has been a privilege – the future of Barça looks bright with him at the helm," Gundogan remarked, his tone unmistakably hopeful.

The midfielder also paid tribute to a handful of teammates who left a lasting impression. “Rodri, Fermin, and Gabriel Jesus – each brought something unique. Rodri’s composure, Fermin’s tenacity, and Jesus’s instinctive finishing made our midfield a living, breathing organism,” he noted, adding a slight chuckle when recalling late‑night tactical debates.

Looking forward, Gundogan is keenly aware of the looming Champions League tie against Galatasaray in Istanbul. "It’s a massive challenge, especially playing in that electric atmosphere," he admitted. "But Barcelona has the depth, the character, and the tactical flexibility to handle it. I’ll be watching, cheering, and hoping they keep the momentum going."

As for his own next chapter, Gundogan stays modest. "I’m just grateful for the experience, the friends I’ve made, and the lessons learned. Whatever comes next, I’ll carry a piece of Barcelona with me," he concluded, a subtle nod to the club that shaped his final European season.