Pep Guardiola must be delighted with the introduction of Hugo Viana at Manchester City as he has managed to help bring four fresh faces through the door in quick time.
However, the Manchester City boss knows his players inside and out and ultimately, the six-time Premier League winner’s verdict matters most.
Guardiola took responsibility for Kevin De Bruyne’s exit and at the end of the day, what he says should be gospel for the decision-makers at City.
Aside from De Bruyne, it looks like other players could depart the Etihad Stadium as well.
Man City should keep Ilkay Gundogan amid Galatasaray interest
One of them could be Ilkay Gundogan, who has strongly been linked with a move to Galatasaray.
Gundogan has agreed personal terms with Galatasaray and after returning to Manchester City just last summer, he could be on his way out just a year later.
Ilkay Gundogan in action for Manchester City v Wydad at the FIFA Club World Cup.
Photo by Emilee Chinn – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
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However, Pep Guardiola and City should keep the German for several reasons.
Firstly, after a slow start upon his return, Gundogan’s displays improved during the second half of the season, such as in games against AFC Bournemouth and Fulham where he rolled back the years.
While the 34-year-old may not longer be in the prime of his career, the treble-winner’s ability to knit the midfield together, footballing intelligence and understanding of Pep Guardiola’s system remain top-notch.
Nathan Ake highlighted Tijjani Reijnders’ completeness as a player and in the event that Rodri is unavailable or rested, Gundogan would thrive as a number six playing alongside a player as athletic as the Dutchman — something he was unable to do last season due to Manchester City’s ageing midfield.
Furthermore, playing alongside Rodri, a player who he has played alongside 155 times would make the former Barcelona technician’s job easier as the Spaniard is a master of his holding midfield position; potentially leading to the veteran not having as much defensive responsibility and still playing some of his best football.
ILKAY GUNDOGAN AND RODRI’S RECORD FOR MAN CITY
APPEARANCES 155
WINS 115
DRAWS 20
LOSSES 20
JOINT-GOAL PARTICIPATION 2
With Reijnders hoping to learn from Gundogan in his debut season at Manchester City and another central midfielder in Nico Gonzalez still finding his feet, the Sky Blues legend could mentor both players behind the scenes.
Ilkay Gundogan has already dropped major hint about Man City future
Gundogan hoped to play with Manchester City’s signings next season, as per his own admission.
“They’re really exciting additions. I’m looking forward to playing with them. We know we didn’t meet our usual standards last season but that’s in the past. This is a new season and we’re very motivated and excited to start the right way.”
While Galatasaray is Gundogan’s dream club, he may well be open to playing for Manchester City for another year and help them take a significant step forward to reaching the top again.