Ilkay Gundogan‘s dream move to Barcelona has been shattered as Hansi Flick, the German national team coach, has made a surprising U-turn on his decision to allow the Manchester City midfielder to join the Spanish giants.

The Initial Agreement

It was initially reported that Flick had given his blessing for Gundogan to make the switch to Barcelona, a move that would have seen the 33-year-old return to his native Germany after eight years in England.

The Change of Heart

However, in a shocking turn of events, Flick has now backtracked on his decision, citing concerns over Gundogan’s fitness and the potential impact of the transfer on the German national team.

Fitness Concerns

Flick has expressed worries about Gundogan’s ability to maintain his high level of performance, particularly given his age and recent injury history. The German coach believes that the midfielder’s fitness levels may not be sufficient to meet the demands of playing for both Barcelona and the national team.

National Team Impact

Flick is also concerned about the potential disruption that Gundogan’s departure could cause to the German national team. With the 2024 European Championship on the horizon, Flick wants to ensure that his key players are focused and committed to the national team, rather than being distracted by transfer speculation.

What’s Next for Gundogan?

With Flick’s change of heart, it remains to be seen what the future holds for Ilkay Gundogan. The midfielder has been a key player for Manchester City, helping the club win numerous titles including four Premier League crowns. However, with his contract set to expire in 2024, Gundogan may still be considering his options for the next chapter of his career.

Conclusion

Ilkay Gundogan‘s proposed move to Barcelona has been thrown into doubt after Hansi Flick‘s surprising U-turn. As the German national team prepares for the 2024 European Championship, Flick’s decision to block Gundogan’s transfer has raised questions about the midfielder’s future and the potential impact on the national team. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.

What do you think about Hansi Flick‘s decision? Share your thoughts in the comments below!