Ilkay Gundogan 'learning' from Barcelona's youngsters

Amidst the tumultuous environment at Barcelona, Ilkay Gundogan has consistently maintained a high standard, setting a benchmark for the rest of the first-team squad to follow.

His presence at Barcelona, a player with extensive experience at the pinnacle of football, is seen as a boon for younger members like Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi within Xavi Hernandez's squad. 

Gundogan's insights and leadership are invaluable, as he not only imparts valuable knowledge but also acknowledges learning from the club's emerging talents.

"Of course, it's a different generation, they grow up differently and you don't have the same mentality in many things, but honestly, I'm also learning from them, from their perspective.

"I love it when young people train or play, like Lamine or Pau, without thinking too much. They go out and play, and you think they don't feel the pressure, or they don't care about the pressure. 

"And in fact, that is what it should be like. And that's why they are extraordinary, because they don't care. They know they're talented and they play.

"When I was sixteen or seventeen years old and they put me on the pitch, I was nervous not to make mistakes. I could even be a bit shy, but we need this freshness, and the squad is very proud that they help us so much."

Barcelona's nurturing environment for young players allows them to flourish, providing a platform for individuals like Yamal and Cubarsi to pursue their first-team aspirations. 

"This ethos reflects positively on the Catalan club's future prospects as they strive to recapture their past glory in the forthcoming seasons."