The Barcelona coach did not expect to be pressed about Ilkay Gündogan’s future during the briefing room session.
FC Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández was taken aback in the press room when questions about the German midfielder surfaced. In this moment, the Catalan club’s coach faced up to rumors surrounding the possible exit of the midfielder. A journalist from Gamers, part of a media group, asked Xavi about reports from a Saudi newspaper that claimed the former Manchester City ace had asked to depart in January. The coach responded with a clear, pointed reply: “If you’re looking for a house here. That’s what a Saudi newspaper says? Wow…”
Gündoğan has been one of the most utilized players for Barca in terms of minutes, featuring in 1,451 minutes on the pitch this season and contributing to the team’s attacking output in key fixtures.
The midfielder drew attention after the Clásico defeat to Real Madrid, reacting to comments about his teammates. His words suggested that the disappointment from losing to their archrival stung more than some teammates might admit, shedding light on the tension and competitive spirit within the squad after a tough result.
Information published in Arabia
Reports from the Arabic daily Asharq Al-Awsat have stirred further discussion about potential moves. The article claimed that the door had been opened for a player who previously declined summer opportunities and had now reached out to interest clubs in the region. Saad Al-Ladhim, who heads the Saudi federation’s Competition Committee, implied that a Barcelona midfielder was the subject of this new contact. While the official did not name the player, Asharq Al-Awsat asserted that the individual was Ilkay Gündoğan and that his actions might signal a shift in his future availability.