"We didn’t have any doubts when the possibility was open"

Ilkay Gundogan was a key part of Pep Guardiola's Manchester City side during his seven successive seasons with the club but opted to move on last year when he signed a contract with Barcelona that he did not expect to expire this summer.

His coach at the Sky Blue side explained the slight ins and outs of his return, basing his decision on his performances in Spain and the free nature of the deal. “It was a complete surprise and unexpected. It happened,” said the manager.

“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," Guardiola continued.

"We didn’t have any doubts when the possibility was open so we’re absolutely delighted that he’s back. 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."

 

August 23, 2024