In an interview with Bild, ● Gündoğan opened himself on his departure from FC Barcelona, with reference to financial reasons and a desire not to complicate things for the club.
“Playing for Barça was a dream”
“I have always dreamed of playing for Barcelona, and that dream came true,” said Gündoğan. “In April 2024 I spoke with Xavi about my future. By the way, Xavi is an excellent coach. We really worked well – it is just that Real Madrid was too strong at the time.”
“I felt it was better to leave”
“They originally signed me to bring experience to the team and the club. In the end I thought leaving was the better option. Even internally I could feel it.
Although I think I had a very good season, they still preferred me to leave – mainly for financial reasons. And I am not the kind of person who only stays for a contract and is a burden for someone. “
On Hansi Flick and what came after
“Hansi Flick and I were able to get along well. After the holidays I was motivated and hoped to work with him again. I looked forward to a deep conversation, but it didn't happen.
The club clearly had other plans. Many things didn't come out – for example, Flick contacted me on my birthday. That made me very happy. I wish him sincerely and the club remained success. '
Guardiola goes into the story
“My wife Sara had an idea-half joke, half seriously she said:” Call Pep Guardiola! 'The next day I did exactly that.
And that is how the whole story unfolded. Now everything is great. I feel very comfortable in Manchester, and I really believe that sooner or later we will be back at the highest level. “