Barcelona midfielder, Ilkay Gundogan, has expressed disappointment over his team’s loss in the Uefa Champions League quarter-finals against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), attributing the defeat to missed opportunities and a critical red card.
Goals from Ousmane Dembele and Vitinha were followed by a brace from Kylian Mbappe as Luis Enrique masterminded a 6-4 aggregate win over his former side.
“I am disappointed,” the former Manchester City man told CBS. “Very disappointed actually as we were in such a good position.
“Not just after the first leg, but after the first goal we scored. Everything was in our hands and we just gave it away in the most simple of manners. We just gave it to Paris Saint-Germain and that’s the most disappointing part.”
Gundogan specifically criticized Araujo for his rash challenge that led to the red card, suggesting that he should have allowed the PSG attacker a chance instead. He emphasised the importance of making calculated decisions in crucial moments to avoid unnecessary setbacks.
“If he fouled him, I guess it’s a red card,” the German continued. “I haven’t seen the replay, I don’t know. You guys probably know better than me.
“It’s difficult to say. You know, in these kinds of crucial moments you need to be sure to get the ball. If you don’t, and again I don’t know if he touched the ball or not, you need to stay away.
“I would prefer to concede a goal there or give the striker 1v1. Although, the ball was played quite far ahead so I don’t even know if he would have reached the ball. But, maybe let our goalkeeper save us or even concede a goal because to go a player down so early on just kills your game.”
Gundogan’s remarks highlight his desire for a stronger mentality and resilience from Barcelona’s players, especially in high-stakes matches like the El Clasico and Champions League clashes.
