Germany manager issues crucial update over Barcelona veteran’s international future

IIlkay Gundogan has logged significant minutes for both club and country this year. Following an impressive campaign with Barcelona, he led Germany in the Euros.

Fatefully, his tournament was cut short last night after Spain secured a dramatic victory over the hosts in an enthralling quarterfinal clash.

With Germany bowing out of the competition and Gundogan finally being awarded some time to rest, speculation about his international career has been rife.

There has been talk of the midfield maestro following in the footsteps of Toni Kroos, who has officially retired from both domestic and international football.

Julian Naglesmann is optimistic about reuniting with Gundogan

However, Julian Nagelsmann, the manager of the German national football team, has provided an optimistic update regarding the international future of Barcelona’s seasoned midfielder, Ilkay Gundogan.

Addressing recent speculations about Gundogan’s potential retirement from the national team, Nagelsmann stated at a press conference:

“I haven’t received any signals from him as to whether he’s going to continue or stop. He’s a quiet leader who doesn’t give big speeches, but he’s very experienced. Of course I’d be happy if he continued.”

Will Gundogan continue playing for Germany? (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

“In the end, it’s up to the big players to decide for themselves. I was very happy that he was our captain and I’m currently assuming that he’ll continue to be available to the national team,” he added.

The 33-year-old enjoyed a solid campaign with Germany, notably being named the player of the match for Germany’s win against Hungary.

As such, the Germans would be eager to see him continue plying his trade at the international level.

Gundogan expected to play a key role under Hansi Flick

Gundogan will soon be reuniting with former German national team manager Hansi Flick, at Barcelona.

Although he is not getting any younger, reports have mentioned that Flick considers Gundogan a key player in his setup and will entrust him with many minutes next season.

His versatility, goal threat, and leadership are all still valuable assets, and Flick intends to make use of them.