Barcelona didn’t spend big money in the summer transfer window, but they did bring in bargains. And according to Xavi Hernandez, one of their signings cannot be fully valued.
It’s difficult to value Ilkay Gundogan after he arrived from Manchester City on a free at the end of his contract. Realizing that his student had adapted to life in Catalonia in just a short time, Xavi explained that he was very happy with the German player.
“He is having a very good start to the season. The way he adapts or his leadership ability, it all gives us composure and peace of mind for our teammates. All the balls that went through him, they were effective. He is an invaluable player. Ilkay offers peace of mind as well as a reasonable pace. He is the foundation of our playing style,” Football Espana quoted the Spanish coach as saying.
Xavi is very secure with Gundogan in the midfield position.
Gundogan hasn’t necessarily put his stamp on a defined position, but that’s because Xavi has used him in so many roles. He plays as a holding midfielder, a central midfielder and occasionally an unorthodox winger. Gundogan has been asked to do a number of different jobs as the Blaugrana are caught in a storm of injuries.
Dang Nguyen | 21:12 October 24, 2023
