According to Mundo Deportivo, Manchester City are in touch with their former captain Ilkay Gundogan to discuss a possible return this summer. This comes after the German player was asked to leave by his current employers Barcelona.
Ilkay Gundogan is a Manchester City legend
Little did anyone know that Ilkay Gundogan would go on to script a legacy at Manchester City when he arrived from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2016. Fair to say that without him, the Citizens might not have tasted as much success as they enjoyed over the past decade.
Gundogan went on to join Barcelona at the beginning of the previous season as he wanted a new challenge. He featured in 51 games, netting five goals and providing 14 assists. He averaged 1.5 shots, 1.7 key passes, and 0.7 dribbles per game (stats via whoscored).
The German international is a reputed name in the world of football. He is known for his intelligence and positioning on the field. He can play as a holding midfielder as well as behind the striker to ensure the smooth functioning of the team.
Manchester City are keen on having Ilkay Gundogan back
There were little doubts over the continuity of Ilkay Gundogan at Barcelona at the start of this campaign. Simply because he arrived last season only and was one of their best performers. However, the story has taken a new turn over the past few days.
It has been learnt that the Spanish side has asked Gundogan to leave as they struggle to register him in the La Liga. Barcelona want to free up the player’s huge wages and use the space to get other names registered.
While the 33-year-old could’ve refused to leave, he is being professional and looking for options. One of the options remains rejoining Manchester City, who are also keen on having him back. It will be interesting to see how this chapter develops in the coming days, having Gundogan back shouldn’t be a bad option for Pep Guardiola.
