Gundogan: Midfielder Reveals Player Who Influenced His Choice to Join Barcelona

• Barcelona recently unveiled Ilkay Gundogan
• The midfielder revealed that he turned down top clubs to sign for the Blaugrana
• The German international recently spoke on how a Barcelona star played a role in his signing

Ilkay Gundogan, who was unveiled by Spanish club Barcelona on Monday, has taken to the media to speak on his choice of signing for the La Liga champions.

The former Manchester City star brought to an end his seven-year spell in Manchester after leading the club to a historic treble.

Completing what appears to be one of his lifelong ambitions, the 32-year-old has spoken on many events that unfolded before he signed on the dotted line on his Barcelona contract.

As quoted by Barcelona Universal, the midfielder highlighted the influence of Robert Lewandowski in his signing for the La Liga champions.

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Gundogan said:

"After Poland vs. Germany, Robert asked me to have a short talk.

"And when he started talking about Barcelona, the club, the city, the family lifestyle, I could see a twinkle in his eye and his joy and how much he loves being part of this club."

Gundogan on his Barcelona idols

Amidst the glitz and glamour and the cheer and excitement, Gundogan took time to name a few Barcelona legends he deems as his idols.

The marquee midfielder noted a few names, including the likes of Ronaldinho, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Sergio Busquets as his idols in the game.

As quoted by Barca Times, he said:

"My idols? Ronaldinho…although he is very different from me.

"Also Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets," he said.

Barcelona fans are filled with hope as the first few days of the German at the Spanish club have certainly been promising. Fans hope Gundogan can replicate his amazing Man City form at the club.

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Ilkay Gundogan could depart Barcelona

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Ilkay Gundogan joined La Liga champions, Barcelona, on a free transfer after capturing a European treble in his final year at the Etihad Stadium.

The former Manchester City captain has also secured a reported £7.7 million insurance policy should Barcelona’s financial troubles stop him from playing this season.

Gundogan will not take a risk and has a special clause inserted in his contract that could see him depart Barcelona if the club is not able to register him due to any financial problems.