Ilkay Gundogan reveals why he thinks Pep Guardiola re-signed him at Manchester City | OneFootball

Manchester City would not have re-signed Ilkay Gundogan if it was not for one particular belief of Pep Guardiola, the player himself has admitted.

The 33-year-old made a return to Manchester City in the summer transfer window, and just one year on from leaving the club in light of their Treble success, joining Barcelona on a free transfer after his contract expiry.

With Etihad Stadium officials having exhausted a number of options in search of a new central midfielder throughout the summer market, the availability of Gundogan was one they could not turn down, especially with the chance of re-signing the player for free.

However, the transfer of Gundogan back to the Etihad broke Pep Guardiola’s traditional policy of not taking back players that have departed, and certainly not those of Gundogan’s age, which is arguably a reflection on his abilities at this stage of his career.

Speaking during a recent interview, Ilkay Gundogan has admitted his belief that Pep Guardiola would not have re-signed him for the Premier League champions if it was not for the view that he could help achieve major success in the now-ongoing campaign.

“I’m sure he [Pep Guardiola] wouldn’t have signed me if he didn’t think I could contribute and help us achieve good things this season,” Gundogan admitted.

“Obviously I also have a point to prove, I didn’t come back just to enjoy it and sit back, I came to perform and to compete,” he continued.

“That’s what I want to do this season, and I want to help and contribute in the best possible way for this team’s success.”

Gundogan and Manchester City are expected to challenge for all of the usual major honours this season, however the true test of their capabilities will likely come deeper in the season with new additions to the schedule.

Pep Guardiola and his players are due to compete in the new and expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which will take place in the United States and run between the end of the ongoing season, and the start of the new campaign.