The main reasons why Barcelona moved for Gundogan

Barcelona have been actively pursuing the signing of Ilkay Gundogan for several months, as this was one of Xavi Hernandez's top priorities due to the midfielder's exceptional versatility.

His arrival will bring a significant boost in quality to the team, providing multiple alternatives and addressing some of the team's deficiencies.

The announcement of the deal is eagerly awaited by Barcelona fans, as the agreement was reportedly finalized earlier this week.

Here comes a look at the main reasons why the Blaugrana wanted to sign him.

Gundogan's versatility

Gundogan's arrival will offer a multitude of options for the Barcelona midfield. The German international can play as a holding midfielder, although he may shine less in that role, or as an attacking midfielder. He is also capable of playing in front of the double pivot as a creative playmaker.

His overall game vision is outstanding, boasting an 88.2 percent passing success rate and contributing four assists in his 31 Premier League appearances last term.

When considering his performances in the Champions League, his assist tally rises to seven.

Gundogan's goalscoring

Predominantly playing as a playmaker or in front of the double pivot, Gundogan has netted eight goals in the Premier League this past season and 11 in all competitions.

He has attempted 41 shots, with 20 on target. His influence extends to creating chances for his team, having been involved in generating 37 goal-scoring opportunities for Manchester City.

Gundogan's set piece prowess

Since Lionel Messi's departure, Barcelona have barely netted from direct freekicks. It has been two years since they converted such a set piece, dating back to May 2, 2021.

In contrast, Gundogan has demonstrated his proficiency in this area. Just a month and a half ago, he brilliantly struck a direct freekick into the back of the net against Everton.

Gundogan's familiarity with Barcelona's style

Gundogan's adaptation to the team should be relatively straightforward, considering his experience under Pep Guardiola for seven seasons.

He was Guardiola's first signing when he took charge at Manchester City. Additionally, Gundogan is a teammate with Barcelona's goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen at Germany.

Gundogan's leadership qualities

Three Barcelona captain departed last season as Gerard Pique left in December, while Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba parted ways with the club at the end of the campaign.

These players not only contributed on the field but also provided leadership, experience, and guidance to the team.

Aged 32, Gundogan will bring his leadership qualities to Barcelona, having previously served as captain at Manchester City.

Gundogan's consistent title success

Apart from his first season in England, Gundogan has enjoyed success in every campaign and now aims to add more trophies to his collection in his debut LaLiga season.

He celebrated five Premier League titles, two Community Shields, four Carabao Cups, two FA Cups and one Champions League trophy.

Notably, he will arrive in Catalonia as a treble winner with Manchester City, having triumphed in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League, being the one who lifted all those trophies as the team captain.

The signing of Gundogan significantly enhances the team's quality. Furthermore, the midfield is a crucial area for Xavi, as he has previously favored fielding four midfielders in a 4-4-2 formation.

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