Manchester City vice-captain Kevin De Bruyne has said that while Ilkay Gundogan tends to be rather quiet, he is a leader of men.
The Belgian playmaker was speaking to talkSPORT about the £20 million (Guardian) man and his future at the club beyond this season.
Kevin De Bruyne, who lauded Ilkay Gundogan and his impact on Manchester City also went on to pinpoint his underrated leadership qualities.
Kevin De Bruyne says quiet Ilkay Gundogan is actually a leader
Many opposition fans were surprised upon seeing the German voted as the Sky Blues’ skipper after Fernandinho’s exit, which goes to show how much respect he commands in the dressing room.
Rio Ferdinand has previously said that he is ‘not surprised’ that the five-time Premier League winner became the club captain, due to his experience, quality and habit of stepping up in the big moments.
Kevin De Bruyne has now come out and praised Ilkay Gundogan as both a player and a leader, as well as pleading with him to prolong his time at Manchester City.
“He’s been doing this stuff since he’s come here. He’s not the loudest player but the quality is exceptional. Whenever it gets tough, he’s there. So, he scores incredible goals, he’s important, he’s our captain.”
“I’ve always had a good relationship [with him]. Well, hopefully, he can stay longer.”
Ilkay Gundogan is exactly what a captain should be
While captains are often associated with being vocal and barking orders at are their teammates, Kevin De Bruyne is right in pinpointing how Ilkay Gundogan is a leader, even if he does not fit the norm of one.
It is all well and good demanding others to step up but a skipper that does not lead by example is a futile one.
Captains should set the blueprint, both on the training pitch and during matchday on how to conduct themselves, the work ethic required to be at the top and most importantly, with their performances.
Gundogan has done so ever since he joined City.
