Gundogan: Rodri is a key player in any team, and Barcelona is currently the strongest team in the world

In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Gundogan discussed the upcoming Champions League match against Barcelona, his experience at the club, and some of his former teammates. Rodri is widely regarded as the most complete midfielder in the world for many years, and in Gundogan's view, Barcelona is currently the strongest team in the world.

Cubarsí and Fermín were part of Barcelona's first team when you were there under Xavi. How do you assess them?

Gundogan said: "Both of them are excellent examples of La Masia's outstanding youth development program. Cubarsí has good game understanding and remarkable ball control for his age. Fermín brings a lot of energy from midfield, makes energetic runs, and poses a scoring threat. Both have high quality and the right mentality to play important roles for the club in the coming years."

When playing against Barcelona, you will face Rodri, Gavi, and Alejandro Balde again. You played many matches with Rodri in midfield at Manchester City. How does it feel playing alongside him? How does he control the game?

Gundogan said: "In my view, Rodri has been the most complete midfielder in the world for many years. He was the best player at the 2024 World Cup and was the match-winner. Playing alongside him is an honor because he makes the entire team structure clearer and brings better balance. He reads the game faster than others and controls the match's rhythm through important ball possession and passing. No matter which team he plays for, he is the key to that team."

You created many goal-scoring opportunities for Gavi. What are his strengths? What can he bring to Barcelona?

Gundogan said: "Gavi is an excellent forward. He works tirelessly for the team, applies intelligent pressure, and creates a lot of space for teammates without the ball. His technical quality is very high, and he can break through individual defenders in the penalty area. He combines hard work with excellent individual skills and can help the team win tight matches. From our first training session together, Yamal's quality was impressive, and his composure when playing is remarkable."

You also worked with a very young Alejandro Balde at Manchester City. Did you see his leadership potential at that time?

Gundogan said: "Yes, definitely. At just 19 or 20 years old, Alejandro Balde already possessed the tactical maturity and composure of an experienced player. He frequently communicates with teammates on the pitch, reads the game well from the back, and never shies away from responsibility. His professionalism at Manchester City was at the highest level."

You worked with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City for six years. What did you learn from him?

Gundogan said: "He completely changed how I view football. Under Pep Guardiola, you learn the reason behind every movement and the meaning of every position on the pitch. His attention to detail, tactical intelligence, and pursuit of perfection are remarkable. He made me a better player and a more thoughtful person."

Final questions - How do you predict the Galatasaray versus Barcelona match? Which of the two teams will reach the Champions League final, and who will win?

Gundogan said: "I never like to predict specific results. I expect an intense and high-level match, and we will do our best to win. As for the final, the Champions League is always unpredictable, but big teams like Manchester City and Barcelona are always among the favorites. In my current view, Barcelona is the strongest team in the world."

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