“Hansi Flick’s Tactical Shift: İlkay Gündoğan’s Future at Barcelona in Question”
Barcelona Head Coach Hansi Flick Plans to Reduce İlkay Gündoğan’s Role
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick plans to reduce the role of experienced midfielder İlkay Gündoğan. This development puts the future of Gündoğan, who has been Barcelona’s top assist provider and most consistent performer throughout the season, in doubt.
Gündoğan’s Performance and New Plans
Throughout the season, İlkay Gündoğan managed Barcelona’s midfield during the absences of Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi, contributing 14 assists. However, according to reports from Sport, Hansi Flick’s plans do not include Gündoğan in a key role for the upcoming season. This situation will require Gündoğan to make significant decisions about his future.
Transfer and Salary Cap Issues
The report indicates that Gündoğan’s potential departure could help alleviate Barcelona’s salary cap issues, particularly in acquiring Nico Williams, one of their top targets in the summer transfer window. If Gündoğan agrees to this, he will be allowed to leave the team this summer. If he decides to stay, he will have to compete in a highly competitive midfield.
Gavi’s Absence and Midfield Intensity
With Gavi not expected to return until November, Barcelona’s midfield plans are affected. Should İlkay Gündoğan decide to stay, he will have to fight to reclaim his place in the squad. The experienced German international has outperformed his rivals, except for Gavi. Hansi Flick, having five substitutes at his disposal, may opt to substitute Gündoğan earlier in matches that require high physical effort.
