‘He’s not coming to retire’ – Guardiola on Gundogan return | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola admits Ilkay Gundogan’s return to Manchester City came as a surprise but backed the midfielder to make a big impact this season.

City have signed the 33-year-old on a free transfer from Barcelona, where the Germany international spent just one season following seven years in Manchester.

And Guardiola says Gundogan still has plenty left to offer his team.

“Most of the time all the managers say in the transfer window anything can happen so this is the real proof,” Guardiola said.

“It was a surprise, unexpected. We know him quite well; the staff and players. We know the quality he plays last year at Barcelona. High, high level.

“We didn’t have any doubts when the possibility was open and we’re delighted he is back.

“The important thing is he wants to come back. I got the message from [sporting director] Txiki [Begiristain] that Ilkay wants to talk to you and call you. He called me and asked about the situation.

“I said yes and now we are here and he has to deliver a good season.

“The feeling is that he doesn’t come to retire or to remember good memories. We have time to do that in the future. Now it is time to put your shoes on and do your best.”

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