• Mon. Nov 18th, 2024

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    Explained: How Ilkay Gundogan return has solved double Man City problem for Pep Guardiola despite one issue left

    Explained: How Ilkay Gundogan return has solved double Man City problem for Pep Guardiola despite one issue left

    Since returning to Manchester City, Ilkay Gundogan has already handed Pep Guardiola two advantages. After just a year away, Ilkay Gundogan has returned to Manchester City, and naturally, Pep Guardiola is happy about it.

    The Germany international joined the team in 2016 and was a key member of the core squad that won six Premier League titles for City in the previous seven years. He is returning with the intention of carrying on that supremacy.

    At the end of his contract, Gundogan left Etihad Stadium last summer in quest of a fresh challenge, which he ultimately decided on Barcelona. Gundogan had already reached the last 12 months of his two-year contract with the Catalan club when it became apparent he could walk away.

    Given the history he has with City and Guardiola, it was no surprise that both parties were open to a reunion and getting his services back as a free transfer was just an added incentive. In his press conference on Friday, ahead of the clash against Ipswich Town which Gundogan is available for, Guardiola discussed the signing and how it all came about.

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    “It was a complete surprise and unexpected. It happened,” he told reporters. “We know him quite well, me personally but the players and the staff and everyone. We know the quality he played with last season in Barcelona. He played at a high level, consistency with a lot of minutes, producing a lot.

    “We didn’t have any doubts when the possibility was open so we’re absolutely delighted that he’s back. I got a message from Txiki [Begiristain] saying Ilkay wants to talk to you. He called me and asked about the situation and if there was a chance to come back if I would like it and we said yes immediately.

    “I have a feeling that he doesn’t come here to retire or remember good memories that we have. We have time for the good memories in the future but now it’s time for shoes on and play your best.” Having spent one season as club captain, Gundogan is undoubtedly crucial, both off and on the pitch but it is particularly in the latter where his experience will count.

    Having lost Julian Alvarez, Guardiola now has a player capable of filling his shoes while also being able to drop deeper and cover for Rodri. Mateo Kovacic did an excellent job in the Spain international’s absence, but having another option for that role, in what is sure to be another chaotic season, will certainly be welcomed by Guardiola.

    However, it must be noted that Gundogan does not provide much long-term security with the final years of his career on the horizon. Having recently retired from international football, it is certainly plausible he exits the game entirely in the next couple of years.

    City are therefore likely to be vigilant in the market and aware of opportunities in search of their Gundogan replacement, again. In the meantime though, Gundogan can make an immediate impact for Guardiola with the future of the midfielder perhaps more of a problem for his successor.

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