The 2022 edition of the FIFA World Cup will arguably witness its biggest game of the competition so far when Germany take on Spain. It is a must-win game for Die Mannschaft, who are running the risk of another early elimination from the World Cup.
Many will be keeping a close eye on this fixture and according to Mundo Deportivo, one of them will be Xavi Hernandez.
The Barcelona coach has travelled to Doha on Friday to watch some of the matches in the stadium and to keep a close eye on not only the Barcelona players but also some of the club’s transfer targets. As per the report, one player he is keeping an eye on is Ilkay Gundogan.
In fact, Xavi is expected to watch the German international later tonight in the game against Spain. Barcelona have long targeted Gundogan as a potential reinforcement in the midfield unit, but they have yet to make a substantial move for the Manchester City star.
With Pep Guardiola recently extending his contract at Etihad, many believe Gundogan may opt to prolong his stay at the club. His current deal expires at the end of the season and a definitive decision on his future may come soon after the World Cup.
However, Xavi is prepared to change the dynamics by watching him closely in action in Qatar. The Barcelona coach’s presence inside the stadium is certainly a major step from Barça perspective, especially given the way the Spaniard has convinced players to join the Barcelona project in the past.
Apart from Gundogan, Xavi is also expected to witness Barcelona players in action such as Gavi, Pedri and Sergio Busquets, along with Jordi Alba. Later, Xavi plans to watch Qatar’s game against the Netherlands, where two more Barcelona players in Memphis Depay and Frenkie de Jong will be representing the Oranje.
