Ilkay Gundogan explains how he persuaded Pep Guardiola to bring him back to Man City
Ilkay Gundogan was a crucial member of Barcelona's squad last season and played 51 times, scoring five, but opted to enjoy one last chapter with City as he returned on a free transfer, signing a one-year deal
by Oli Gamp · The MirrorManchester City star Ilkay Gundogan has revealed how a simple phone call with Pep Guardiola convinced his old boss to bring him back to the Etihad this summer before completing a return from Barcelona.
The midfielder - a crucial member of the club's treble-winning side of 2022-23 - left City for Barcelona shortly after being involved in the incredible triumph but spent just one season in La Liga.
Gundogan was a crucial member of Xavi's squad last season and played 51 times, scoring five, but opted to enjoy one last chapter with City after making history with Guardiola's side across seven seasons. He returned on a free transfer, signing a one-year deal.
The 33-year-old has wasted little time slotting straight back into life at City, featuring four times so far - including a starting spot in their 2-1 win over Brentford last time out.
"When I was sure it would be amazing to come back, I spoke with Pep,’ he told the Daily Mail ahead of his side's huge clash against Arsenal this weekend. "I called him and asked him if he could imagine it. Not out of nothing. I had thought about it. it was something I personally wanted to do and I didn’t have much to lose, you know?
"I was a bit nervous beforehand but it was a nice call. Obviously my relationship with Pep was always good. Even though I was in Barcelona last year we had a few phone calls between each other. We actually also met there once.
"There is no reason to hide that we have a good connection but at the end you never know how people will react or what they think about certain situations.
"So when I mentioned it and I got a great response, I was relieved. It was something that maybe I didn’t quite expect in that moment. He said had it been up to him it would have been done tomorrow."
Speaking on his decision to re-sign Gundogan earlier this summer, Guardiola said it was a no-brainer to bring a player of his stature and experience back to the club.
“It was a complete surprise and unexpected. It happened," the Spaniard said. "I got a message from [sporting director] Txiki [Begiristain] saying Ilkay wants to talk to you. He called me and asked about the situation and if there was a chance to come back if I would like it and we said yes immediately.
“I have a feeling that he doesn’t come here to retire or remember good memories that we have. We have time for the good memories in the future but now it’s time for shoes on and play your best.”
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