Barcelona veteran midfielder not thinking about exit amid Qatar interest

With Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Gavi injured, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick stares at a complicated pre-season. In fact, Ilkay Gundogan is the only fit senior midfielder for the tour in the United States.

Recent days, however, have created significant doubt over the future of the German star despite his importance in the team last season.

The midfielder was even said to be considering an offer from Al-Sadd in Qatar which would naturally include a bump up in wages.

Far from Qatar

As revealed in a recent update via SPORT, however, Gundogan is not thinking about leaving Barcelona this summer. He is oblivious to the noise around his future and is committed to the Blaugrana.

The German midfielder’s idea is the same as what it was the day he signed – to see out his contract in Catalonia and enjoy playing at the club of his dreams.

Not going anywhere. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

If anything, the arrival of Hansi Flick as the manager only furthers the veteran’s case to stay for the duo have worked together in the past as well.

Set to return

Gundogan is currently on vacation after leading his national team to a respectable quarterfinal finish in the recently concluded European Championship.

While the hosts were expected to progress deeper in the tournament, they were one of the best teams at the event and their run was only thwarted by an inspired Spain side who went on to win the tournament.

The former Manchester City star will return to Barcelona at the end of the week to join training right before the team leave for the United States.

Needless to say, he will be a central character throughout the tour that begins at the end of the month.