İlkay Gündogan is returning to Manchester City just a season after leading them to their elusive Champions League victory and a domestic treble. There is no doubt that City are a stronger side with him in the team. Beyond footballing reasons, he’s the kind of signing that tips the Premier League title race firmly back in City’s favour.
He is the ultimate leader and arguably the best midfielder in the world when it comes to making runs from deep. His timing is impeccable, and he knows the tactical set-up so well that he’ll slot back into the team like he never left. Arsenal have gained momentum, especially after the signing of Ricardo Calafiori, but the return of Gündogan means City will be in even better hands, which is why Guardiola didn’t hesitate to re-sign him.
Financially, City ges a high-quality player without a transfer fee, only needing to cover his wages, but the real value lies in what he brings to the team – control. Guardiola is obsessed with ball retention, believing that dominating possession leads to creating more chances and, ultimately, winning more matches.
Gundogan’s technical ability makes him indispensable. He can play as a deep-lying midfielder, central midfielder, attacking midfielder, or even as a box-to-box midfielder, making him a versatile solution to any tactical situation. Some may argue that he should never have left, but sometimes, stepping away for a while helps you appreciate the bigger picture. He left on good terms, and there’s nothing wrong with him returning to a team where he is regarded as a legend and loved by everyone at the club.