'Guardiola's man is coming back'→'Here we go' Reporter admits it!...Manchester City's former captain pushes to return for the first time in a year "Coach also approved"

Aug 20, 2024

The captain who stood by Pep Guardiola is preparing to return.

European football transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano reported on his personal SNS on the 20th (Korea time) that `Pep Guardiola has approved Ilkay Gündogan's return to Manchester City.'

German midfielder Gündogan began to make his name known in Dortmund after passing through Bochum and Nuremberg. Playing for Dortmund, he headed to Manchester City with Pep Guardiola's call in 2016. Having enjoyed a glorious period with a great performance in Manchester City, he was loved by many fans as he served as captain of Manchester City.

Ahead of the 2023-2024 season, Gündogan has chosen to challenge. He moved to Barcelona, his dream club, and chose his last challenge. Gündogan also continued to play in Barcelona and maintained his position. He played in 36 league games and started 33 of them.

However, the situation has changed with the new appointment of Han Ji Flick this summer. Han Ji-flick, who has newly taken the helm of Barcelona, plans to actively use young resources. In Spain, Gündogan is also expected to play a small role starting next season.

It was Qatar that initially aimed for the gap between Barcelona and Gündogan. Spanish media reported that `Qatar's al-Sada has offered Gündogan a three-year contract, which Gündogan is also considering accepting. This will be considerable in terms of salary. Barcelona's contract with Guendoan has one year left, and there is also a one-year extension option' he said.

Recently, many European stars have chosen to move, accepting huge salaries offered in the Middle East. The same proposal arrived for Gündogan. For Gündogan, he is at a crossroads of choosing whether to accept a bench seat in Barcelona or leave the European stage for a large sum of money in the Middle East.

There was a team that held Gündogan's hand. It was Manchester City. Manchester City immediately showed interest in Gündogan when he entered the transfer market.

Romano says 'Guardiola is in negotiations with Gündogan and his camp, and the first contact has been made as he wants his return. Gündogan explained the current situation, saying, 'The decision is up to him because he has been offered by Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Man City.'

Manchester City has not pushed for reinforcement of the midfield this summer, and if Gündogan, who has already adapted to Guardiola's system, returns, he is expected to have room for reinforcement of the midfield for about a season. In addition, since he has already been a captain in Manchester City, leadership in the locker room can be expected.

After a season, the reunion between the student and the director is approaching. Manchester City, where Gündogan has rejoined, is expected to be stronger.

digh1229@sportschosun.com