Ilkay Gundogan came back to Manchester City after spending one year at Barcelona. He was one of the best players for City and the former Dortmund star scored title-clinching goals. After his contract situation got worse at City, he lived his childhood dream of playing for Barcelona. Their performance fell woefully short of their standards, and the club engulfed itself in drama. The financial situation at the club meant that he would have to leave Spain.
This option surprised Pep and it was a great opportunity for the two to reunite. Everything went smoothly and the former captain returned. Recently Ilkay Gundogan was Sipping coffee at his favorite place and gave an interview to Patrick Berger of Sky Sports Germany. Let’s unfold the conversation.
Back at City and comments on Haaland.
Ilkay Gundogan was asked about how it feels to be back in the City dressing room and about his pretransfer conversation with Pep. The 33-year-old said that he realized that the situation has changed but he is looking forward to fighting for his position. He wants to play for more years and looks eager to prove himself.
He disclosed that his conversation with Pep before the transfer was short and clear. The only thing to work out was how to get him back. He said that people were happy to see him, and he sees this as a homecoming. He expressed satisfaction with the transfer and got on the pitch just 2 days after arriving in the city. In the draw against Inter, after being subbed on at the half he was inches away from winning it for City. The German midfielder looks happy to be back and excited to compete at the highest level once again.
When asked about Erling Haaland, Gundogan said that he has grown immensely under Pep and is in spectacular form. Gundogan also talked about how complete of a striker Haaland is. Finishing with both feet and head also the agility at that size is rare to find and makes Haaland a fabulous striker to have on your team. Scoring nine goals in four league matches to begin the season is evidence of Haaland’s brilliance.
Ilkay Gundogan inspired by Mikel Arteta
Gundogan talked about getting his B coaching license 2 or 3 years ago and seems interested in coaching after retirement. He clearly said that he can play at the top for a few more years and is inclined towards coaching. The German is already thinking about his future as a coach and was grateful for the time spent under great coaches like Pep, Klopp, and Tuchel. Looking at his football IQ and leadership, he could very well become a great coach someday.
When asked if Mikel Arteta is a role model of his, in terms of career after playing, Gundogan said yes. Arteta spent time at City with Ilkay Gundogan from 2016-19 as Pep’s assistant coach. Gundogan was appreciative of the Spaniard and expects Arsenal to compete for titles. According to him, the reason behind Arsenal Vs City matches being so competitive is the similar playstyle. Gundogan sounded impressed by the Arsenal coach and plans to follow a similar path.
He led them to their only Champions League victory as the captain. After a not-so-good season in Spain, the German looks to get back to winning ways at Manchester City. His experience and quality in the midfield are invaluable and can help Pep’s team in difficult times. A player of his stature inside the dressing room and on the pitch is an extension of the manager and his being at the club before would only cut short the time required to adapt. Ilkay Gundogan has won many trophies in his career as a player, with the 33-year-old getting closer to the end of his playing days a move to coaching sounds great for him as well as the fans.
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