By Jennifer Amarachi
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s coach, described Ilkay Gundogan’s return to the club as a huge surprise.
The Manchester City manager responded to the transfer by saying it demonstrates that anything can happen during the transfer window.
“When managers say ‘this is the transfer window, anything can happen,’ this is the real proof.
“It was a complete surprise, unexpected. We know him quite well, myself personally, but also the staff and players, and we know the quality he showed last season at Barcelona. He played at a high level, consistently, with a lot of minutes and contributions.
“We didn’t have any doubts when the opportunity arose. We’re absolutely delighted he’s back,” Guardiola said.
Gundogan, a 33-year-old midfielder who recently returned to Manchester City as a free agent, explained in an open letter that his departure from Barcelona was due to the club’s financial difficulties.
He expressed disappointment in the
situation, stating that the club’s financial constraints left him with the team.
“Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad.
“Nevertheless, it’s been a time with incredible experiences and ups and downs — I always wanted to play at Barça, and I am very grateful for a memory and experience that I will cherish for life.
“I wish you the best for the season and for the future. The fans deserve to see this great club return to the pinnacle of world football,” the letter read in part.
