It takes time to adapt to a system as unique as that of FC Barcelona and the football of Spain. Many greats of the game have tried to adapt but have failed in a rather amusing fashion as well. However, the Barcelona arrivals that do manage to adapt and deliver their best often help the team achieve great things.
One arrival who undoubtedly has been transformative for the team this season is Ilkay Gundogan. After arriving in the summer from Manchester City as a free transfer, the 33-year-old midfielder born in Germany has given nothing but good things to Barcelona as time has passed.
In fact, his adaptation has been completed to such a great extent that he is outperforming even the most decorated and experienced veterans of the league. As highlighted by SPORT, Gundogan’s numbers throughout this season surpass those of his countryman and Real Madrid rival.
The rival in question from Los Blancos is none other than 34-year-old German midfielder Toni Kroos. Gundogan’s numbers, beyond just his impressive goals and assists, outnumber those of Kroos’s in a lot of different departments. When paired side to side, it becomes quite evident that the former Manchester City man has adapted well to Spain.
Across this ongoing campaign, Gundogan has participated in all 34 games for Barcelona. Kroos, on the other hand, has taken part in 30 of the 33 games Real Madrid have played in the same time period. In total, Barça’s German maestro accumulates 2,723 minutes, which include 29 games as a starter, and only 5 where he came off the bench.
On the other hand, Toni Kroos accumulates 1,972 minutes this season across 20 starts, and 10 games as a substitute. In terms of their records in the game, Gundogan has won 22 times, drawn 5 times, and suffered defeat on 7 occasions. Kroos, in this case, takes the edge with his 25 victories, 3 draws, and 2 losses.
Individually, however, Ilkay Gundogan shines much brighter. He has scored 5 goals this season compared to only the one scored by Kroos, and provided 9 assists while his compatriot has 7. This tally of assists also happens to be the most Gundogan has delivered in any season of his career.
While both of these players are crucial to Xavi and Carlo Ancelotti respectively, Gundogan takes the edge in terms of individual dependence. It seems that his presence is much more of a necessity for Barcelona than Kroos seems to be for Real Madrid at this point of his career.
