Barcelona have quickly fallen in love with Ilkay Gundogan after getting him in the summer when he left Manchester City on a free transfer.
That’s according to AS, who cover the German today and how Xavi has been ‘delighted’ with the player, who brings ‘experience, hierarchy and talent’.
The manager is quoted as saying “Gundogan has fallen to us from the sky” in his post-match press conference on Tuesday following the 5-0 win against Antwerp.
That was a comment from a delighted coach who has seen his side develop quickly from last year, aided by the arrival of Gundogan from Manchester City.
He’s already recorded three assists and earned the love of his coach, who has described him as “superlative” and been keen to praise him whenever possible.
The big plus point has been his ‘silent leadership’, though, with Gundogan a leader on and off the pitch but more than happy to hide among the crowd and let the other players shine as well.
This was something he confirmed against Antwerp, where he played in different positions in midfield, playing both as a pivot and a playmaker in the big win.
He appears to have gotten to grips with life at the Nou Camp and Xavi’s ideas quickly, carrying on where he left off with Manchester City and earning the love of his new club in the process.
