Ilkay Gundogan’s future at Manchester City may be unclear, but Pep Guardiola has admitted how important the midfielder is to his team.
Gundogan was one of the first signings Guardiola made when he took charge at City in 2016, and after a tough couple of seasons at the Etihad Stadium he has become a key player.
The German midfielder has featured in 27 of City’s 31 Premier League games this season, playing a crucial role in dictating City’s tempo and creating space for others.
However, Gundogan could be playing his final games in sky blue.
The 32-year-old’s contract will expire at the end of the season, and while City would like him to stay, no new agreement between the two parties has been reached.
What did Pep say?
Speaking ahead of City’s Premier League clash with Fulham on Sunday, Guardiola said he had no update on Gundogan’s situation.
The City boss expressed how much he would like the midfielder to stay, and went on to explain his importance to the team.
“I love him, I adore him. I’m married but I love him,” Guardiola said.
“[He is] so important. Such an important player. Leading with silence , when he talks everybody listens, this is so important.
“A football player defined perfectly. He can play attacking midfield with a sense of goal and assists.
“[He is] so intelligent in the movement, in every movement he has to do he is in the right position.
“He can play holding midfielder. One of the exceptional players in all senses, incredible.”
What does the future hold for Gundogan?
Just like Guardiola, Gundogan himself has remained tight-lipped about his future beyond the end of the season.
Last month Gundogan’s agent – who was photographed speaking to representatives of Barcelona – denied reports that the midfielder had made a decision on his future.
Should Gundogan leave City then the Spanish giants are favourites land his signature.
