2024-08-18 16:40:02
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has expressed his confidence that Ilkay Gundogan will remain with the team, clarifying that the reason for his absence from the match against Valencia was purely due to his lack of full-match fitness.
“I think that Gündogan will stay with us. He was not 100% fit to play today,” said the manager after the match as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
“He had some discomfort. I spoke to him, but that stays between us, not with you,” added Flick.
This statement comes amidst a flurry of speculation about the 33-year-old midfielder’s future, particularly after he was not included in the squad for the La Liga clash against Valencia.
Gundogan’s omission from the squad raised many eyebrows, leading to widespread rumours that the seasoned midfielder might be on his way out.
Given his significant experience and status as one of the club’s highest earners, his exclusion was seen as more than just a precautionary measure.
Many began to speculate that there could be deeper reasons behind his absence, suggesting that the Catalan giants were considering offloading the German international.
Gundogan is not leaving
Reports soon surfaced, claiming that Barcelona were looking to part ways with Gundogan to create much-needed room in their wage budget.
The club is under immense pressure to free up salary space to register new signings, such as Dani Olmo, and Gundogan’s potential departure seemed like a practical solution.
However, sources close to Gundogan’s camp have informed Barça Universal that the player has not expressed any desire to leave Barcelona.
In fact, Gundogan himself took to social media after Barcelona’s 2-1 victory over Valencia, sharing a positive message that further dispelled the rumours.
His statement, “Crucial victory in our season opener – good job! Vamos,” reflected his continued commitment to the team and his satisfaction with the result.
Gundogan was one of Barcelona’s standout performers last season and is expected to play a pivotal role in Flick’s plans moving forward.
While the rumours of his exit may have stirred some concern among fans, Flick’s recent comments and Gundogan’s own actions suggest that he is not going anywhere.
