This 2022-23 football season has been enjoyable for Manchester City. From winning the Premier League and FA Cup to finding themselves in the Champions League final, City have been on a roll. The leadership of Pep Guardiola mixed with amazing performances from the players has been instrumental in City’s success.
While every player in the starting 11 has contributed to the team, City captain Ilkay Gündogan has been instrumental for them. In 50 games for the club this season, Gündogan has scored 11 goals and dished out seven assists. Along with these impressive stats, the German’s leadership qualities have stood out the most.
However, there is a chance that City might miss out on Gündogan next season. With his contract set to expire after the end of this season, the 32-year-old has been linked to many top clubs across Europe. City too are interested in keeping their captain, and based on reports, the club have already offered an extension.
However, it seems Gündogan is in no hurry to make a decision about his future. Recently, the German player’s agent spoke about Gündogan’s future in football. Despite so many tempting rumours surrounding him, Gündogan remains focused on leading City to Champions League victory. The 32-year-old’s agent Ilhan said:
"“Nothing has been agreed with City… or any other club for Gündogan, recent news is not true. Ilkay is only focused on the Champions League final as things stand.” [H/T Fabrizio Romano]"
If City are able to win the Champions League final against Inter Milan on June 10th, 2023, the club will win a treble. This will indeed be a special feat in MCFC’s history. However, while they will enjoy winning, defending and retaining their status next season will be crucial too. And if the club intends to do the same, Gündogan will be a key part of the project.
Ilkay Gündogan led Manchester City to a victory in the FA Cup final
On Sunday, Manchester City captain Ilkay Gündogan led his club to a FA Cup final victory against derby rivals Manchester United. While the victory was a collective effort by the whole City squad, Gündogan’s performance stood out. Just 20 seconds into the first half, the German scored a phenomenal volley to give City an early lead.
While United recovered through a Bruno Fernandes penalty in the 33rd minute, Gündogan once again scored a decent volley in the second half to get City a 2-1 lead. At the end of the game, City found themselves victorious with the same scoreline, and it was a City captain that was unsurprisingly declared the man of the match.