Ilkay Gundogan talks Barcelona exit, Xavi, Flick, Lamine, Cubarsi, Fermin, Rodri, Gabriel Jesus

Ilkay Gundogan, a former Barcelona and Manchester City midfielder, recently discussed his time in Catalonia and the reactions of his former teammates. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Gundogan praised Barcelona as the strongest team in world football heading into their Champions League fixture against them. He reflected on his season under manager Hansi Flick and former manager Xavi, emphasizing Flick's quick implementation of his tactical plans and Xavi's profound influence as both a manager and mentor.

Gundogan also highlighted the emergence of Lamine Yamal and the quality of players like Pau Cubarsi and Fermin Lopez, who developed under Xavi's guidance at La Masia. In addressing his nervousness about facing Barcelona, Gundogan maintained that while the occasion was special, he would focus entirely on the match once it began.