Xavi will have to wait to rest veteran Barcelona midfielder

Having arrived on a free deal in what many believe to be one of the biggest bargains of the summer transfer window, Ilkay Gundogan has quickly made an impression on the Barcelona fans.

While the German has not quite reached the same level as the one he displayed at Manchester City – understandably so given the adaptation to a new environment – he has already proven he is a key piece in the team dynamics.

Gundogan has now played the full 90 minutes in eleven consecutive games across all competitions for Barcelona and Germany, and there is not a single game where he has not made an appearance, as pointed out by SPORT.

No rest since September 16

Aside from goalkeeper Marc Andre ter Stegen, Gundogan is the only player to have played every single game for the Catalans, and barring his appearance off the bench against Real Betis, all have come as a starter.

He has also been involved in all of Germany’s international friendlies during the two-week breaks, only coming off the bench in one of the games against France.

Thankfully, die Mannschaft do not have to play qualifiers for the EURO as the host nation for next year, which at least reduces the intensity of the games.

However, it is still not healthy for the midfielder to be playing so many minutes week-in, week-out.

Avoiding friction over statements after El Clasico

The Spanish outlet also point out that Xavi is well aware that his veteran midfielder needs to be rested, but may not be able to do so immediately.

Considering that the game against Real Sociedad at the weekend is a crucial one after Barcelona fell further behind top spot in La Liga, it may not be feasible to bench Gundogan to ensure they come away with a result against a tough side.

Additionally, benching him now could be a risky prospect given his statements after the loss in El Clasico – which reflected his winning mentality and character.

After he told the media that he wants to lead by example and the fact that the loss should bother the team more, benching him now could imply those words were misconstrued and that there is tension within the locker room.

It is unnecessary drama that Barcelona do not need at the minute, and Gundogan’s response was that of a captain, which he will look to back up on the pitch.

However, it would be best for the German to get some rest as soon as feasible given his slightly more advanced age and his importance to the squad.

The last thing the club need is another addition to their worryingly long injury list.