Barcelona got the better of Real Madrid with a dominant 3-0 scoreline on Saturday night at the AT&T Stadium.
Xavi Hernandez’s men could not have hoped for a better way to bounce back from the defeat to Arsenal, but not all was sweet on the night.
The manager was forced to call on his substitutes twice in the first half owing to injuries.
Andreas Christensen was the first to make way, but Ilkay Gundogan soon followed towards the end of the half after he felt discomfort in his thigh.
Reports earlier today brought to light that both players harbored no injuries and hinted towards their substitution being made out of caution.
Gundogan confirmed the same on his official X-handle when asked about his setback.
“Don’t worry – It’s not that bad,” the treble-winning captain said, hinting at a speedy recovery.
A big decision for Xavi Hernandez
It is no secret that Xavi Hernandez sees the new signing to be a critical cog for his plans heading into next season.
On that front, the preseason was always going to be critical to incorporate Gundogan into his dynamics.
Barcelona have only two games left to go before the league officially kicks off, and it is in the manager’s hand to decide whether he prioritises the German’s fitness or incorporation.
Gundogan could be available as early as for the game against AC Milan and deploying him on the night remains an option.
However, it would be advisable to rest the former Manchester City star and feature him for the Joan Gamper game against Tottenham Hotspur.
In 42 minutes against Real Madrid, the 32-year-old completed 82% of his passes and won one duel.
He was deployed in the advanced midfield along with Pedri Gonzalez, and he will probably continue to feature as a creative outlet through the season.
