'I'm a realist' - Ilkay Gundogan plays down Barcelona's chances of winning the Champions League as he admits he 'could have done more' to prevent Xavi stepping down

Barcelona have struggled through their Champions League campaign so far. The Blaugrana needed a win on the final day of the group stage to advance to the last 16, and are outsiders to taste European glory for the first time since 2015.

In an interview with Spanish outlet La Vanguardia, Gundogan conceded that the Blaugrana's chances of Champions League success are slim: "There are other teams in the competition with more of a chance and better experience, but if we can reach the quarter finals, we are entering special territory. I am a realist, but I also know it's difficult for everybody."

Gundogan also revealed that he wasn't expecting Xavi to step down: "I was surprised by Xavi's decision to step down, I didn't expect it. I wish I could have done more for him. I have that feeling."

Less than nine months on from sealing a first La Liga title in four years for Barca, Xavi is heading to the exit door, announcing in January that he will leave the club at the end of the season. Barca are eight points behind league leaders Real Madrid and out of the Copa del Rey.

The Blaugrana take on Napoli on Wednesday in the first leg of their Champions League knockout tie. The Serie A holders have endured a tricky season of their own, and are 9th in the league table heading into the game.