-
Ilkay Gundogan hints at the reason for the delay in Man City contract negotiations.
Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has acknowledged that he needs to know what the future holds for manager Pep Guardiola before he makes a decision on his future.
The 32-year-old club captain is out of contract at the end of the season, as is Guardiola, and Mp3bullet sport understands that Bayern Munich are interested in bringing him back to Germany. Reports elsewhere have also named Barcelona as suitors.
City are open to extending Gundogan’s contract but, speaking to kicker, the midfielder confessed that Guardiola’s future could play a significant role in his decision.
“I’m pretty relaxed about it,” he said when asked about his future. “While it doesn’t sound like much anymore, the summer of 2023 still feels so far away. I’m not overly concerned about it at the moment.
RELATED:
- France Qatar World Cup Squad Numbers Unveiled
- Ten Hag takes decision on Ronaldo as explosive interview leaves Man United players ‘furious’
- Chelsea makes decision on Graham Potter’s future after Newcastle’s defeat.
“It’s not even clear what’s going to happen with our coach. His contract is only until 2023, and nobody knows what he is planning.
“In my career, I have always made my decisions dependent on who is the coach there, because the most important thing for a footballer is that the coach values you, but can also challenge and encourage you.”
Gundogan went on to stress that he would be happy to remain with City, adding: “I feel very comfortable in Manchester and am very happy. I have a lot to thank the club for and I’ve experienced a lot of great moments. I can imagine hanging around for a few more years.”
Gundogan was content to rule out one possibility, though: a Liverpool reunion with former Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp.
“I think I can rule out that happening,” he laughed. “Everyone knows how much I like and appreciate Kloppo, but I’ve been at City for a few years now. And now, as City captain, moving to rivals Liverpool? I can’t imagine it.”