Arguably the biggest story this week surrounding Manchester City has been the potential return of Ilkay Gundogan to the club. Since news broke of Barcelona deciding to let the Manchester City legend leave the club this summer the possibility of a return to the Etihad loomed large. Now it appears that the German international is set to return to the world champions.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has reported that a deal that will see Ilkay Gundogan return to Manchester City is now complete. Furthermore, Romano reports that a deal between Gundogan and City was reached after positive talks between the two parties over the last 48 hours. Lastly, Romano adds that Pep Guardiola has given the green light for Gundogan to return to Manchester City.
The perfect summer signing is set to land at the Etihad.
As a player, Ilkay Gundogan is the perfect midfielder for Pep Guardiola’s squad. That is proven after his successful first stint with the club. He knows what is expected of him from his manager. There will be no period of adjustment needed by Gundogan. He knows exactly what is required at the champions. The German international is an instant plug in and play option for Guardiola. That is one major positive of re-signing the club legend. There is another massive positive in Ilkay Gundogan returning home.
The German international also now has the opportunity to finish his storied career at the Etihad. There aren’t many fairytales in football and Gundogan and Manchester City now appear to have one on offer. Gundogan already appeared to have had the fairytale ending to his time at the world champions. He left the club after captaining City to the treble. Now he looks to have the opportunity to add another chapter to his legacy at the club. Such opportunities are rare in football and Gundogan and City now have one in their hands. His return to the Etihad promises to be a special moment.
All that awaits now is official confirmation of Ilkay Gundogan’s return to Manchester City. That appears to be only days away. It is an exciting time and an unexpected bonus during this summer’s transfer window.
Esteemed Kompany host Steven Mcinerney shares his thoughts on Ilkay Gundogan’s imminent return in the video below. He breaks down what it could mean for Manchester City and Gundogan and looks at a host more in the video below.
