Gundogan: It’s important to stay calm | OneFootball

Ilkay Gundogan has called for calm after our disappointing 2-2 draw at home to Brighton.

And the German midfielder says he expects to see the absolute best from every player in the squad once we return from the upcoming international break as we look to end the campaign strongly.

City went ahead through Erling Haaland’s penalty, before Pervis Estupinan’s free-kick drew Brighton level.

City 2-2 Brighton | Match report

Man of the match Omar Marmoush then struck from distance to reassert City’s lead before half-time, but an Abdukodir Khusanov own goal shortly after the break saw the points shared.

The result at the Etihad leaves City fifth in the Premier League table, with the battle to qualify for next season’s Champions League intensifying by the week.

But in a typically inspirational message, Gundogan, one of the leaders of this City team, says he wants to see everyone at their optimum once the international break has concluded.

“It's important to stay calm,” Gundogan said afterwards. “Of course, mistakes happen even at this level.

"The opposition are so good. Every game is tough. Then when you concede sometimes you try not to do overdo things.

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"We need to expect the best from everyone every single day. I thought we had a good week of training.

"We want to transmit that power and energy into the game. Sometimes it isn't enough."

City produced moments of attacking quality but never really had full control of what was an open, end-to-end match.

It was a frustrating afternoon for Pep Guardiola’s side, who now have an FA Cup quarter-final away at Bournemouth to look forward to in two weeks’ time.

And having led at half-time against Brighton and carving out someone clearcut chances, Gundogan admits this was an opportunity lost.

"I feel personally very disappointed,” Gundogan said.

"After getting twice in front and actually playing quite well. It's a bit frustrating to not get the three points.