Pep Guardiola has been speaking to the media today ahead of a pre-season game with Bayern Munich – and he was asked about his former Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan.
The midfielder left the club a few weeks ago at the end of his contract.
He is now a Barcelona player.
For them, it’s an absolutely brilliant signing on a free.
They’ve landed a player who can play many different roles in midfield to a high standard, and someone who is a leader.
It is little wonder City tried to get him to stay, which is something Guardiola reiterated today in his press conference.
Pep Guardiola raves over Ilkay Gundogan
Guardiola was today asked about Gundogan, who will likely make his debut for Barcelona against Arsenal on Thursday.
The Spaniard just couldn’t hide his admiration for the German maestro.
After being asked about the captaincy vote, he said of Gundogan: “What can I say? It has been an incredible seven years together. I have no words to express my gratitude to him and wish him all the best in the challenge of his life.
“I think Barcelona took an incredible player. But this is life. Every one of us has family, challenges. We tried to convince him to stay but we could not. We wish him all the best.”
Gundogan has also spoken of his admiration by Guardiola.
The star has described the Spaniard as a special coach, and believes his influence on him could push him towards coaching.
Gundogan will be a big loss for City
Gundogan will be a really big loss for City.
He had so many brilliant moments for the club during his seven-year stay.
Few midfield players are able to play to such a high level like him in multiple different roles.
Mateo Kovacic is a great signing for City, but he’s got big boots to fill.
The fact Gundogan was hugely respected and a real leader is a big thing.
City do have others of that ilk. But at times Gundogan was genuinely inspirational in the way he played and led the team.
