What next for star veteran midfielder as uncertainties loom over his Barcelona future?

  • Contrasting reports emerge regarding Ilkay Gundogan's future at FC Barcelona.
  • What next for the star veteran midfielder as uncertainties loom over his Barcelona future?
FC Barcelona v AS Monaco - Trofeu Joan Gamper
FC Barcelona v AS Monaco - Trofeu Joan Gamper | Pedro Salado/GettyImages

Recently, there have been uncertainties regarding the future of veteran midfielder Ilkay Gundogan at FC Barcelona. Even though Gündogan's entourage had made it clear some days ago that he is very happy at Barcelona and has no intention of leaving, recent reports have been linking the star midfielder to a potential exit move. Until very recently, Gundogan's intention was clearly reported that he would fulfill his Barcelona contract until 2025; however, things soon took a sharp turn in the next few hours.

What next for Gundogan as uncertainties loom over his Barcelona future?

A report from Diario SPORT mentioned that Gündogan has already informed Deco and Hansi Flick about his desire to leave this summer. At the moment Barça is silent, but the player wants to leave before August 30. Thus, the question arises: what next for the star veteran midfielder as uncertainties loom over his Barcelona future?

Not to forget, the veteran midfielder had clearly stated that he sees himself in the Super League, but it certainly wouldn't be this summer. Moreover, Ilkay Gundogan's agent had this to say about the player's future:

""It is true that some clubs have shown interest in Ilkay and want to sign him, but Ilkay's position is very clear: he will stay at Barcelona.""
Gundogan's agent

Even though it is true that Gundogan has expressed significant interest in Turkish Giants like Mourinho's Fenerbahce, Galatasaray, and Besiktas, his moving to the Super Ligue doesn't stand a significant chance this summer. Recent quotes from Barca boss Hansi Flick sound similar to confirming his Barcelona stay.

Flick said,

""I think that Gündogan will stay with us. He was not 100% fit to play today.""
Hansi Flick

As mentioned, Gundogan doesn't feel like moving away from FC Barcelona, and his recent absence wasn't inclined with his potential move but rather fitness issues. According to sources, Gündogan suffered headaches and got dizzy half an hour after training before the trip and thus was omitted from the squad list.

From Barcelona's perspective, Gundogan stands as an important figure in the club's midfield role, and his exit move would take a toll on the club's current scenario. The veteran's absence was much felt in the Valencia fixture, where the club missed a couple of crucial chances. Barcelona can't afford Ilkay's exit move.

Thus, even though the recent reports have cited affirmatively regarding Gundogan planning an exit move, chances are that he will stay this summer. Being the mainstay of Barcelona's attack force, the club would try its best to keep the German midfielder till 2025.