Ilkay Gundogan has stated that he hopes to extend his stay at Manchester City beyond this season, as his contract with the English champions is set to expire next summer.
Speaking to Kicker via GGFN, the midfielder revealed that he is happy in Manchester and hopes to stay for the foreseeable future. Gundogan was named captain of the club this summer following the departure of Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho.
Although the 32-year-old’s contract with City is due to expire in 2023, the club and player seem calm about coming to a resolution over a new deal, with Gundogan viewed by many as one of Pep Guardiola’s most important players and a key member of the senior squad.
And according to Gundogan himself, staying at City will be his ideal outcome for next season, with the midfielder seemingly intent on remaining in Manchester and leading the Premier League giants into a new era led by the likes of Erling Haaland and Phil Foden.
Gundogan said: “I haven’t thought that far but in my career, I’ve always made my decisions dependent on who the coach is there because that’s the most important thing for a footballer, is that the coach values you but can also challenge and encourage you.”
The German international added: “That hasn’t changed for me to this day although I feel very comfortable in Manchester and I’m very satisfied. I have a lot to thank the club for and have experienced a lot of great moments. I can imagine staying for a few more years.”
GUNDOGAN STAYING IN MANCHESTER WOULD BE MASSIVE FOR CITY’S FUTURE
With reports of a £22m move to Juventus circulating as recently as last month as per CalcioMercatoWeb, Gundogan staying with City will be a huge boost for the Premier League titans, with the German having the potential to become an important leader for the next generation for the club.
Being captain and also doing his coaching badges, there’s a strong chance that Gundogan could join the club’s backroom staff after his retirement from playing. And remaining in Manchester with City will be a huge boost for the English side’s prospects in the future.
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