Ilkay Gundogan, the German maestro, has completed his move to F.C. Barcelona after the club announced the signing of the midfielder from Manchester City on a free transfer. Gündogan’s arrival, following his recent triumph in securing the treble, has been met with excitement from Culers worldwide, who consider it the best-ever transfer deal, rating it a perfect 10/10. Undoubtedly, they are justified in their appraisal. But what makes this signing so significant for Barcelona’s future?
In the football world, players like Gündogan are exceedingly rare. Only a handful possess the ability to dictate the tempo of play with their exceptional technical skills and game intelligence. Among these rare talents are Xavi, Toni Kroos, and now Gundogan. During Barcelona’s highly successful period, having a player like Xavi was essential, just as Real Madrid relied on Kroos.
While both teams boasted other star players, the influence of intelligent players like Xavi and Kroos cannot be overstated. Playing alongside them is akin to having an experienced coach on the field. Barcelona, however, has struggled to find a suitable replacement for Xavi, their leader and maestro. Now, in Gundogan, Xavi has discovered a player who can emulate his own style of play.
Gundogan – Xavi’s ‘Xavi’?
Gundogan’s passing range, vision, and ability to retain possession will provide valuable depth and creativity to Barcelona’s midfield. Moreover, his presence will be crucial in maintaining the club’s trademark possession-based style of play. Gundogan’s versatility is also a significant asset. He can excel in various positions, including deep-lying playmaker, central midfielder, and even attacking midfielder.
Pairing Gundogan with Frenkie de Jong in a double pivot, combining him with Pedri as a chance creator, or positioning him behind the striker to exploit space and take shots on goal are all possibilities. Gundogan’s ability to shoot from outside the box, coupled with his decision-making skills, will alleviate many of Barcelona’s
challenges.
A natural leader
One of Gundogan’s invaluable attributes for Barcelona is his leadership skills. In the words of Pep Guardiola, “Gündogan doesn’t talk much, but when he speaks, the dressing room listens.” This echoes the influential captaincy of Messi during Argentina’s world cup stint.
Gündogan’s maturity and composure on the field are highly regarded, particularly during high-pressure situations and crucial matches, where Barcelona’s young squad struggled in last season’s Champions League. His winning mentality will elevate the mindset of the team’s young players in the coming seasons. Gündogan’s off-field professionalism and work ethic will also earn him respect from Xavi.
Gundo’s commitment to continuous improvement and dedication to the game will inspire and motivate his teammates, creating a positive impact within the squad. Additionally, Gündogan’s experience and expertise will greatly benefit Barcelona’s rising star, Gavi, helping him become the successor to Xavi.
Another convincing factor that makes Gündogan a dream signing is the fact that he was Pep Guardiola’s first choice when he began his tenure at Manchester City. Furthermore, Gündogan holds a coaching license, which may prove beneficial for Barcelona in the future.
Under Xavi’s guidance, Ilkay Gündogan is a remarkable addition to Barcelona’s young squad in this new era. His presence alone raises the team’s potential to new heights. There is no other way to describe it: In our own words, Ilkay Gundogan es culer: The Dream Signing.
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