Pep Guardiola reveals how Ilkay Gundogan's surprise Man City return happened
- Ilkay Gundogan returns to Man City from Barcelona
- Midfielder spent one year in Catalonia before heading back to Etihad Stadium
- Pep Guardiola opens up on hectic week finalising transfer
By Sean Walsh
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has explained how Ilkay Gundogan reached out to him to ask to rejoin the club.
Gundogan has re-signed for City from Barcelona, only a year after leaving for Catalonia, on a fresh one-year contract and without having to pay a transfer fee.
The Cityzens were quickly linked with a move for the veteran midfielder soon after reports emerged in Spain that he had requested to leave Barca.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Guardiola detailed how the move came about.
"It was a complete surprise and unexpected. It happened," he began.
"We know him quite well, me personally but the players and the staff and everyone. We know the quality he played with last season in Barcelona. He played at a high level, consistency with a lot of minutes, producing a lot.
"We didn't have any doubts when the possibility was open so we're absolutely delighted that he's back.
"I got a message from Txiki [Begiristain, sporting director] 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."
Guardiola added: "He played really well last season and still I know how competitive he is and he drives his mates to their best.
"When it happened I said yes. I love midfield players and I love his qualities. He gives us an alternative in the way we want to play. He can adapt in two or three roles perfectly.
"He doesn't need time to settle. If tomorrow he has to play he knows everything. That's why it's comfortable for us and I know his mentality.
"He didn't come to live his last two or three years here. He will be upset when it's not going well and happy and thinking of the next one when it’s going well.
"That's why he's back - he's beloved of his mates. For the fans I'm pretty sure of that. He's going to try to fight again for us."
Gundogan could make his second City debut on Saturday against Ipswich Town if he receives international clearance in time.
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