Pep Guardiola: Ilkay Gündogan’s return to Man City is not a nostalgic issue
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Pep Guardiola said Ilkay Gundogan had not returned Manchester City to resign and told him that it was time to put on his boots and show the quality that had led him to sign the midfielder for a second time, rather than just enjoying a nostalgic trip.
The City manager admitted he was surprised to hear that Gundogan, who joined Barcelona last summer, wanted to return to the Etihad Stadium, but said the decision was an easy one. The 33-year-old has signed a one-year deal after Barcelona let him leave on a free transfer.
And Guardiola said: “All coaches say that by the time Transfer window When you’re finishing, anything can happen, so this is the real proof. It was a surprise, unexpected. We know him quite well, the staff and the players and everyone, and we know his quality. He played at a very high level at Barcelona last year and we’re looking forward to seeing a lot. We had no doubts when the opportunity was open and I’m delighted he’s back.
“Of course he’s no longer a teenager, but the reason we decided to do this was his level last season. He even played for (Germany coach Julian) Nagelsmann in the national team at the European Championships and played really well.”
Gundogan was City’s treble-winning captain before his departure, scoring 60 goals in 304 games during his first spell at the Etihad Stadium and helping the club win 14 trophies.
Guardiola warned, however, that the time to reminisce will only come when his playing career is over. He added: “It feels like he is not coming to retire or to remember good memories. We have time for that in the future. Now is the time to put on the boots and do your best.”
Guardiola said City’s players had not yet voted for captain this season after Kyle Walker replaced Gundogan as captain last season.
Gundogan could face Ipswich on Saturday if he receives international clearance, but Rodri is likely to miss the game.
The midfielder, who has not played since the Euro 2024 final, has not trained with the City team this week. Savinho, who was injured in last week’s win over Chelsea, is also a doubt.