Manchester City Boss Opens Up On Veteran Midfielder’s Future: Right Call By Guardiola? | OneFootball

Despite being one of the favourites to clinch the FA Cup silverware, Manchester City have failed to meet the standards set under Pep Guardiola both in England and Europe. Several renowned names have underperformed casting doubts over their future, but the charismatic Spanish boss is expected to have Ilkay Gundogan beyond this season despite reports of offloading ageing footballers.

The 34-year-old former Die Mannschaft international had an illustrious career in the Bundesliga with 1. FC Nürnberg and Borussia Dortmund. He went on to become Guardiola’s first signing as the SkyBlues boss, who was aware of his excellence while being in charge of Dortmund’s league rivals Bayern Munich in Germany. Gundogan spent seven years during his first stint and was pivotal in multiple Premier League triumphs as well as the 2022-23 Champions League.

After more than 300 appearances for the Citizens, the German ace joined Barcelona on a Bosman transfer. He returned to Manchester City after just one season at Camp Nou but has failed to replicate his mastery in the middle of the park. Despite making 38 appearances across competitions, he looked out of place while dictating the tempo amid Rodri’s injury absence. The deep-lying role does not suit his game, also, the ‘number 8’ spot requires more pace, movement and work ethic in Guardiola’s style of play.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 21: Former Manchester City goalkeeper, Alex Williams MBE shakes hands with Ilkay Guendogan of Manchester City before presenting the Premier League trophy following the Premier League match between Manchester City and Chelsea FC at Etihad Stadium on May 21, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Why Manchester City Have Made The Right Call

Yet the gaffer is hopeful to have him beyond this summer. After signing an initial one-year contract, the veteran midfielder is on course to trigger an appearance-based extension for further 12 months.

Told Guardiola (as quoted by The Mirror) as he shared his thoughts on the 30 and above stars. Kevin de Bruyne’s future is in limbo due to persistent injury problems, however, both Gundogan and Silva are expected to play a sporadic status to deal with the fixture congestion.

City, meanwhile, splashed an astronomical £180m fee to rope in new names during the winter window. £50m was spent on Nico Gonzalez to restore stability in the centre of the pitch, and the emergence of academy sensation Nico O’Reilly could further reduce Gundogan’s gametime in the 2025-26 campaign. The German, being in his mid-thirties, must accept the bit-part role and help the Spaniard conduct a squad rebuild for the future.