Gundogan talks Messi, La Masia, Guardiola, Barcelona role, ambitions: “Success will not come overnight”

Despite being one of the dressing room’s latest additions, it is clear that Ilkay Gundogan is one of the leaders of Xavi’s Barcelona. The veteran midfielder is after all a treble-winning captain and well-accustomed to leading from the front.

The German star has been sensational for the Catalans since his signing in the summer and has not failed to step up on the big nights. Most recently, he was the team’s brightest spark in midfield against Atletico Madrid and helped the team to a 1-0 win on the night.

Earlier this week, Gundogan spoke about the Azulgranas’ situation and the critical rebuild that Xavi is overseeing at the club. As quoted by AS, he elaborated on the team’s sporting situation and his role in the current setup.

“In sporting terms, things are going well, but we still need to improve in many areas. That’s why they signed me. The coach told me to pass on my experience.”

“Even if it doesn’t work perfectly yet because of the language barrier, I can bring about certain things in my young teammates just by my behaviour. Barcelona trusts the players from La Masia. There are also foreigners like me, who bring stability,” he added on the harmony between homegrown and signed players.

Gundogan went on to highlight how the team was just stepping out of the era of legends and emphasised that the rebuild would not take place overnight.

“The club has recently lost personalities like Lionel Messi, they marked an era. Success will not come overnight, it’s a process, always in cooperation with the fans, by the way,” he said.

The former Manchester City star was then asked to comment on how his current challenge was different from the role he had under Pep Guardiola last season. To that, he replied:

“It’s a completely new challenge. After seven years at Manchester City with Pep. I thought it was important to get out of my comfort zone again. Not only on a football level but also on a personal level. I like to start again, even if it can be difficult.”

Finally, the Barcelona star made a big statement by announcing his interest in taking up coaching after his playing days came to an end.

“It fascinates me. Pep always managed to get up to twenty stars to agree and work. He convinced even those who don’t play to give one hundred percent for the team.”

“In the end, it is always the coach who has to solve a difficult situation. He is responsible for the success. It’s a difficult job,” he added.