One major factor behind Manchester City’s record-breaking title win was the club’s squad depth. From defence to attack, manager Pep Guardiola had a wealth of talent to choose from.
Ilkay Gundogan, for instance, was a player that always delivered when called upon. And if City are to top their incredible 2017/18 campaign, then Guardiola must retain and keep his more fringe players happy.
That includes Gundogan who, according to Transfermarketweb (via the Daily Express), is interested in a move to Barcelona this summer.
The Breakdown
Gundogan was Guardiola’s first signing at the Etihad but, due to injury and the incredible form of Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva, he has failed to nail down a regular spot in City’s starting XI.
Nevertheless, the £36m-rated (via Transfermarkt) Germany international showed himself to be of great value to Guardiola last season, scoring goals in some of Manchester City’s biggest games including clashes against rivals Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham.
Although he was mainly used as an alternative to Fernandinho in the deep-lying midfield position, Gundogan is a great option to have further up the pitch if De Bruyne or Silva are unavailable.
The 27-year-old has the vision, a good range of passing and at City, has shown he is capable of scoring goals from midfield and set pieces.
Guardiola is looking to bring in another midfielder – although he looks set to miss out on the Chelsea-bound Jorginho – but the former Barcelona boss should do all he can to keep Gundogan at the club regardless of who comes in or not.
It is vital that Guardiola keeps Gundogan and the rest of his squad together while adding to it, rather than let it become weakened like what has happened with previous Premier League champions Chelsea after their recent title successes.
About the Author
