Manchester City are blessed with a wealth of quality midfielders, however, some of Guardiola’s men are willing to look for pastures new in the near future.
Pep Guardiola was on the top of his game. His Manchester City side was regarded as one of the best sides the league had ever seen. However, the emergence of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool seems to have broken City’s dominance. Having failed to hold his own at the face of adversity Guardiola might be headed towards the exit. Now, few of his players are also seen open entertaining talks about their long-term future at the Etihad Stadium.
Gundogan casts doubt on long-term City future
Ilkay Gundogan has spoken about his plan for the future. The German has hinted that he would be willing to look at La Liga and Serie A as options. He has also earmarked MLS as a possible destination during the later stages of his career.“I don’t have a concrete plan. But I would trust myself to play in another league abroad, “Gundogan said while appearing in the kicker meets DAZN podcast.
“It also depends on my form then. When I am 32, 33 and I realise that I can’t keep my level or it is dropping, it will be a stop abroad where you might not play at the highest level and not keep up with Premier League.”
“If I were to say I want to leave and continue playing at a high level, only Spain or Italy would be an option for me. Italy is on the up – it has become very tempting again and I hope the stadiums fill up again too.”
“But if I were to say the sporting challenge might not be that high anymore, then things like the U.S. are definitely an alternative, also because of the life there and the other opportunities you have.”
“Don’t see a reason to leave Manchester City”
But the 29-year-old seemed to make further clarification regarding his Man City future. “I don’t see any reason to say that I am still at a top-level and want to leave Manchester City,” he continued.
Photo: Bleacher Report
“We are playing football at an extremely high level and success is always possible here in every season.”
Author’s Take
Ilkay Gundogan still has a year or two in him to give to Manchester City. After which he will possibly be moved on to by Man City’s hierarchy, even if he doesn’t plan on doing it himself.
While the ability of Gundgan is undoubted, injuries have constantly marred his career. The German had broken past the 2000-minute season mark last campaign. He is on track to do it this season as well. If he can remain fit, he can further his career in Europe. Else, Gundogan can always find a home in the MLS and still play for the City group [New York City F.C.].
