Pep Guardiola shares the story of İlkay's return to Manchester City

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said that İlkay Gündoğan, whom they have added back to their squad after a one-season break, did not come to retire or to reminisce about good memories.

The Spanish manager made statements regarding the 33-year-old footballer's transfer during the press conference held ahead of their match against Ipswich Town tomorrow in the 2nd week of the English Premier League.

Stating that the transfer happened surprisingly and unexpectedly, Guardiola said, "İlkay called me and asked if there was a chance to return. We accepted immediately. We know what a quality player he is. He performed well at Barcelona last season. We are very happy that he is back. İlkay didn't come here to retire or to reminisce about good memories. We will have time to create good memories in the future."

Stating that he likes his midfielders and their qualities, Pep Guardiola expressed his views by saying, "İlkay offers us alternatives in the system we want to play. He can adapt very well to 2 or 3 roles. He doesn't need time. I think he is ready to play against Ipswich Town if international clearance is obtained."

İlkay Gündoğan transferred to the Spanish representative Barcelona at the beginning of last season after playing for Manchester City between 2016 and 2023.