What does Gundogan staying at the club mean for Barcelona?

Not long ago, reports had emerged that indicated that Hansi Flick would talk to Ilkay Gundogan regarding his Barca future. Barca were clear on their plans, that they won’t push him either to leave the club or stay attached with the club. Moreover, Al Sadd’s interest for the veteran midfielder had everyone excited on what would happen to Gundogan’s Barca future.

Recently, the German international has clarified himself regarding his potential transfer rumours. According to reports, Ilkay Gundogan is not thinking about leaving FC Barcelona, and looks his future at the club. Though the player’s illustrious career speaks for his presence at the Catalan club, how would his stay decide Barca’s fate?

What does Gundogan staying at the club mean for Barcelona?

Ilkay Gundogan, though still showing good signs, has aged till 33 years. Understandably, the veteran midfielder has only a few seasons left at the biggest stage. Moreover, considering his Barca career, it hasn’t been much smooth as would people expect from such a celebrated individual.

If Gundogan would have agreed to the potential move, Barca would have got € 25M- € 30M easily from his transfer fee, which might have helped Barcelona’s cause. Eyeing some of the biggest transfer prospects of the summer transfer window, Barca desperately need funds to manage all of them.

However, on the other hand, Gundogan’s decision to stay could work out as a boon for FC Barcelona. Considering the injuries of their star midfielders like De Jong, Pedri and Gavi, they definitely need someone who can control the game in the middle of the park.

Gundogan, who prefers the central attacking midfield role, has a lot of experience to cater to Barca’s midfield requirement, and play a crucial role in the Catalan team’s attack. Thus, it could prove harsh for Barcelona if they didn’t enjoy his presence at the club.

Overall, a player having the caliber like Ilkay Gundogan boasts enough confidence to take down the opponent backline on his day, and his decision to stay might favour Barca in the long run. Barca would hope that the German veteran continues his rich vein of form and lines up with Fermin and Gavi, to smoothen the pathway for club’s European glory.