'You think they don't mind the pressure' – Ilkay Gundogan on learning from Barcelona's younger generation

Ilkay Gundogan's arrival at Barcelona was a breath of fresh air. With all the chaos going on around him, he has maintained a very high level, and is trying to set the standard for the rest of the first team squad.

Having Gundogan, someone who has been at the top of football for many years, at Barcelona will be perfect for the younger members of Xavi Hernandez's first team. The likes of Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi will receive valuable knowledge, but as the German midfielder revealed to SportIt goes both ways, as he also learns from the young generation of the club.

“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 also learn from them, from their perspective.

“I like it when young people train or play, like Lamine or Pau, without thinking too much. They came out and played, and you think they don't feel the pressure, or they don't care about the pressure. And in fact, that's what it should be like. And that's why they are extraordinary, because it doesn't matter. They know they are talented and they play.

“When I was sixteen or seventeen years old and they put me on the field, I was nervous not to make a mistake. I can also be a little shy, but we need this freshness, and the team is very proud that they help us so much.

Barcelona they have built an atmosphere where their younger players are allowed to thrive, and those after Lamine Yamal and Cubarsi can use this as a springboard for their first team ambitions. It is certainly good for the Catalan club, since it aims to return to its former glory in the coming years.