Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has recently addressed the situation surrounding Ilkay Gündogan, stating that he believes the midfielder will remain at the club despite missing the LaLiga opener against Valencia. Flick clarified that Gündogan’s absence was due to a head injury sustained in a previous match against Monaco, and not related to any transfer request.
Discussion with Gündogan
Flick revealed that he had a conversation with Gündogan during the week to check on his condition and reassure him of his importance to the team. While the specifics of their discussion were not disclosed, Flick expressed confidence in Gündogan’s commitment to staying at Barcelona. Sources close to Gündogan also echoed this sentiment, highlighting his intentions to remain at the club despite rumors suggesting otherwise.
Gündogan’s absence paved the way for a young Barcelona side to secure a 2-1 victory over Valencia, with key players like Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, and Pedri sidelined due to injuries. The match saw a lineup featuring several teenagers, including Marc Bernal, Marc Casadó, Pau Cubarsí, and Lamine Yamal, showcasing the depth of talent within the club’s youth academy. Flick commended the young players for their performance and emphasized the importance of their contributions to the team.
Reflecting on the match, Flick acknowledged that Barcelona started slowly but showed improvement in the second half to secure the win. Despite the team’s mistakes in the first half, Flick praised their resilience and ability to turn the game around before halftime. The match marked Flick’s debut as Barcelona’s coach, and he emphasized the need for continued improvement as the season progresses.
Flick’s remarks regarding Gündogan’s future at Barcelona provide reassurance to fans and the club’s management. The victory over Valencia, achieved with a young squad, reflects the team’s depth and potential for the upcoming season. As Barcelona navigates through the challenges of injuries and transitions under Flick’s leadership, the focus remains on building a cohesive and competitive team to achieve success in both domestic and international competitions.
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