Ilkay Gundogan may be preparing to make Manchester City’s Champions League night uncomfortable, but his bond with the club remains firmly intact.
Speaking at Galatasaray’s pre-match press conference at the Etihad, the former City captain made it clear that sentiment will briefly take a back seat to competition, though his affection for the Blues has not faded.
The German midfielder, who famously led City to a historic Treble in the 2022/23 season, returns to familiar territory having amassed 358 appearances, 65 goals and 14 major trophies across two spells in sky blue.
Now wearing Galatasaray colours, Gundogan admits the emotional pull is still strong.
“Of course, I’m still a fan of this football club, this team and this manager,” he said.
“I watch as many games of City’s as I can and even if we weren’t facing them in this competition, it wouldn’t change anything for me because there are so many people close to my heart here, and obviously I wish City nothing but the best.”
As the Champions League clash gathers pace, Gundogan also turned his attention to the domestic front, insisting City remain very much alive in the Premier League title race.
Having been part of multiple late surges that saw Guardiola’s side reel in rivals, he believes history could repeat itself against current leaders Arsenal.
“I still believe City are able to beat Arsenal to the Premier League title – they were able to close the gap down last weekend and we all know that once this City team gets momentum, I think they will be able to go on a long unbeaten run,” he added.
“I believe in them, I believe in the manager and the team ,and I wish them nothing but the best.”
However, once the whistle blows on Wednesday night, nostalgia will give way to focus.
Gundogan offered a clear-eyed assessment of the challenge Galatasaray face, particularly when it comes to containing one of Europe’s most feared forwards.
“Never underestimate him,” he smiled.
“He’s one of the best strikers in the world and he’s a goal machine and we all know that he has everything in his locker to score as many goals in a game during the season as he wants, so it’s almost impossible to control him throughout 90 minutes in game.
“But of course, it’s important for us on Wednesday evening to stop him – but not just Erling – as a team, collectively and try to prevent situations where he can score.
“That will be one of the secrets if we are to get something out of the game on Wednesday.”
In short, Gundogan’s heart may still beat for City, but for 90 minutes at the Etihad, his focus will be on leading Galatasaray’s charge, fully aware that silencing Haaland and disrupting City’s rhythm is the only route to a result.
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