Man City is considering bringing Ilkay Gundogan back, but how will this affect the current squad, aside from the estimated cost of around £62.8 million? Two positions might be at risk.
Gundogan left Man City on a free transfer in the summer of 2023 after the club did not meet his demands. Despite performing well at Barcelona, he is now likely to leave Camp Nou. Pep Guardiola is eager to have Gundogan return to bolster the midfield.
However, not everyone is happy about this return, especially those who may be affected. Over the past two seasons, Man City has done everything possible to protect Erling Haaland, and Rodri also needs similar attention.
When Rodri is absent, City’s performance often suffers, though he doesn’t always underperform. Rodri requested more rest last season due to physical exhaustion, but this season could be even more demanding.
Mateo Kovacic performed well in the first game against Chelsea but prefers playing in a central midfield role rather than as a backup to Rodri. Nevertheless, Gundogan can meet the club’s needs for supporting the number 6 and the forwards.
Pep Guardiola has maintained long-term stability at Man City thanks to the coaching staff and the club’s structure. Long-serving players like Gundogan are highly valuable. Losing Vincent Kompany and Gundogan has been a significant setback for Pep.
Gundogan’s deep understanding of football and ability to help Guardiola implement tactics effectively makes his return potentially beneficial for the team.
Man City has a promising young talent, Nico O’Reilly, who performs well in roles number 8 and number 10, although he has been used as a number 6 during preseason. O’Reilly has great potential, but injuries have hindered his development.
Gundogan could be an ideal mentor for O’Reilly, helping the young player secure a spot in the first team. If Gundogan returns, Matheus Nunes might face challenges in maintaining his position. Despite being bought for £51 million, Nunes has struggled to be consistent in his first season and may face competition from younger players.
Phil Foden has shown he can play well in an inside winger role, but he struggled when playing as a wide midfielder in EURO 2024. He has expressed a desire to play in an inside role, and City may need to accommodate this.
With competition from Gundogan, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, James McAtee, Matheus Nunes, and Kovacic for the same positions, Foden’s chances of securing his preferred role will be more challenging, especially with Gundogan’s return.
Gundogan could mentor McAtee, but McAtee also needs regular first-team action. If managed well, Gundogan’s return could be highly beneficial and his valuable experience could be a great asset to Man City.
