Fake news! Barcelona star's agent hits out at transfer rumours

James Shearman

• Updated: 16 Nov 2023 22:23 GMT
• 3 min read

Ilkay Gundogan's agent has responded to reports that the midfielder is ready to leave Barcelona.

There had been rumours that he was in talks with Galatasaray over a possible move but those have since been flatly denied.

"The reports in the press these days about Ilkay do not reflect the truth," his agent, Ilhan Gundogan, said, via Mundo Deportivo.

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"I did not meet anyone from Galatasaray before the Bayern Munich game to talk about Ilkay. There was no development, meeting, or anything that came to us in this regard. I want to make this clear.

"Neither I nor Ilkay can understand how this news came about. Ilkay is very happy at Barcelona and is focused on what he wants to achieve there and on his goals.”

This is not the first time that Gundogan has caused a stir in Barcelona since making the summer move from Manchester City.

Ilkay Gundogan controversy

Gundogan has made the news in Barcelona for reasons other than exit rumours in recent months.

His criticism of the team after the 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid was not taken well the media.

"I’m coming from the dressing room and after a result like that, I wished to see more anger, frustration or disappointment," said the 33-year-old.

"This is a little bit of a problem, you know? There has to be more emotion, especially when you lose."

Thankfully for Gundogan, Barca head coach Xavi did well to manage the situation when asked about the controversial comments.

He responded: "Conforming is not part of Barcelona’s DNA. There is a demand for excellence and to win here.

"Gundogan’s interview was spoken about within the dressing room, he clarified what he meant and there is no problem.

"No one has to tell us what the demands are at Barca - especially me, having spent my whole life at the club."