Euro 2024: How can Ilkay Gundogan Impact for Germany in the Euros?

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Julian Nagelsmann has announced the preliminary squad for the upcoming summer's European Championship. The current squad consists of four goalkeepers and 23 field players. Ilkay Gundogan is also called up and will lead the team in the Euro 2024.

As the host, Germany has automatically qualified for the Euro 2024. Along with Hungary, Switzerland and Scotland, they are placed in Group A. They will start their journey in the championship by kicking off against Scotland on the 14th of June.

The last time Germany had lifted the trophy was way back in 1996. Since then they have had hard luck in this tournament. Though they have managed to reach the semi-finals in the 2012 and 2016 editions of the Euro, they have to return home from the round of 16f-16 in the last Euro 2020. In the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the former champions had to face a humiliating elimination from the group stage.

Ilkay Gundogan - A Glance at the Midfield Maestro

The 33-year-old German national is currently playing for Barcelona. The former Manchester City captain is known for his vision, athleticism and leadership. In the early part of his career, in Borussia Dortmund, he played as a wide midfielder and later switched to a more central role. At Manchester City, he played in a variety of midfield positions, including as a holding midfielder. Despite having fewer goals and assists than his teammates, he was praised for his ability to create space for others and circulate possession. He has been also regarded as a clutch player, as his scoring ability in crucial moments often helped City to continue their success stories.

The German midfielder has 89 goals in his club career and most of them are scored for Manchester City. While for the national team, he has 18 goals in 75 appearances. Gundogan has been a regular starter for Barcelona this season and scored five goals with eight assists so far this season.

UEFA Euro 2024 Germany: What Impacts Will Ilkay Gundogan Have on the Germany Squad?

Gundogan is expected to be seen in a central midfield role and definitely will be a starter for Germany. His ability to control the midfield and pace of the game has made him an invaluable addition to the squad. along with the veteran Real Madrid legend, Toni Kroos will dictate the German midfield. His role will be to pass the ball to Florian Wirtz or Leroy Sane at the left wing, Jamal Musiala at the right wing and probably to Kai Havertz at forward.

Despite having an underwhelming season at Barcelona, the captain of the previous season's European treble-winning squad will be crucial for Germany's Euro campaign. Along with Toni Kroos, the veteran midfielder will certainly provide the required depth and maturity to the comparatively younger German midfield and attacking lineup. This combination of youth and experience, along with Gundogan's tactical prowess and immense athleticism will certainly push Germany far in this competition.