Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan reportedly has a change of heart on his future with the freshly crowned Premier League champions.
- Gundogan could stay at City
- Barcelona and Arsenal show interest
- Guardiola praises German midfielder
What is the news?
Gundogan has an expiring contract with Man City and so far it was expected that the German midfielder would leave on a free transfer. Attempts to extend his contract came to nothing and Man City appeared to accept the midfielder’s departure this summer. However, now rumors are coming out of Manchester that Gundogan has changed his mind and would still like to stay where he is.
Barcelona and Arsenal interest
Gundogan’s decision has nothing to do with a lack of interest. For example, FC Barcelona has been linked with the German for months and it is believed that talks have even taken place between the two parties. Arsenal is also said to have made contact with Gundogan’s agent. At the Gunners, the midfielder could be reunited with Mikel Arteta, with whom he has built an excellent relationship during their time together at Man City.
Guardiola wants to keep Gundogan
City manager Pep Guardiola has never made it a secret that he would like Gundogan to stay at the Etihad. The midfielder is one of City’s regular midfield choices and has even been wearing the captain’s armband this season. After City celebrated the Premier League title on Sunday, Guardiola praised Gundogan once again: “He’s one of the best players I ever trained in my career. The whole package. He’s top, top class.”
What next?
Man City still have a busy schedule ahead in the final weeks of the season. The team will play two more league matches, the FA Cup final against Manchester United and the Champions League final against Internazionale. Due to the busy schedule, it seems unlikely that Gundogan will make a decision soon. The midfielder is expected to negotiate a possible new contract with City after the season.
