Ever since arriving at FC Barcelona in the last summer transfer window, Ilkay Gundogan has grown to become one of the most important players for Xavi.
The midfielder is essential for the team, and the German has earned this place with his top-class performances since coming to Spain.
However, the midfielder has also not been without controversy, and his statements about the team after the loss to Real Madrid have particularly kept him in the spotlight since the last month.
Now, appearing in an interview, which has been reproduced by Mundo Deportivo, the German has explained why he made these comments and also talked about other aspects of his life at Barcelona.
Regarding the comments about the lack of anger in the Catalan team, Gundogan explained:
“I cannot put myself in the shoes of others to know how they received it, but I simply expressed my opinion honestly, and my intention was not to attack anyone or anything. I mean that whenever I criticize my team, for whatever reason, of course, I include myself.”
“I always start with myself. I believe I have enough experience to understand how this business works, but I always look in the mirror first and judge myself before others. I want us to do our best because I see a lot of potential, a lot of quality in this team.”
There have been reports linking Gundogan away from Barcelona, with Saudi Arabia being touted as a possible destination, but the German was clear that he was very happy at Barcelona, and is adapting well to the new city and the club:
“Probably I need to get used to it, there’s a lot of noise around. And what’s happening, every imitation, every trick of yours, you know, in games or whatever, will be analyzed.”
“But, of course, it takes some time to adapt to a new country, a new culture, a new city, new people, you know, a new way of playing football, but I’m very happy where I am now.”
I’m adapting better and better. I’ve found a home, a home with family too. So, in terms of feeling happy and appreciating where we are, we’re in a very good moment right now as a family.”
Gundogan also took the opportunity with this interview to clear that he has no problems with Frenkie de Jong or Pedri, and his understanding with both these players is improving gradually:
“I have to tell you that I felt very comfortable playing with Frenkie and Pedri. I think we had some difficulties in the last game, but we also played against a good team. So, neither in the Champions League nor in La Liga can you expect to dominate the entire match against any team.”
“I felt very comfortable having these two incredible and brilliant players by my side. And honestly, let’s not forget that both of them have recently returned after several weeks of injury. We need more time together, playing with each other to get used to it, and then I’m sure things will go much better.”
