‘Many things will change’ – Ilkay Gundogan looks ahead as Hansi Flick replaces Xavi at Barcelona

Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has said he’s expecting plenty of things to change at the club as Hansi Flick replaces Xavi as manager.

Flick has signed a two-year deal with the Catalans and will link up with Gundogan again after working with him previously at international level.

Here’s what Gundogan makes of it all:

“We have a new coach, so it seems that many things will change,” he said.

“We must adapt in the best way and as quickly as possible because we do not have much time to prepare for the new season due to the Euro Cup.”

Yet Gundogan is convinced the future is bright at Barcelona, particularly due to the amount of talented youngsters in and around the first-team squad.

“This is part of Barcelona’s DNA: evolution of the La Masia players, especially this season, Lamine, Cubarsí and Fort, who performed wonderfully and assumed responsibilities from an early age. They are 16/17 years old, but they play at a very high level and will improve even more in the coming seasons. We are lucky to have these players on our team.”

“They have great talent and potential, so they just need to learn from me through experience, because I have been through a lot of experiences and dealt with ups and downs, so I try to teach them how to deal with them.

“I think it was a season full of ups and downs emotionally and physically. But I got to know the league, the club of my childhood dreams and new teammates. I also learned a lot and it is a experience that I really enjoyed.”

Flick will be charged with bringing silverware back to the club after taking over, with Barca having ended the season empty-handed under Xavi.