Ilkay Gündogan’s Manchester City career may not be over yet as reports suggest the German midfielder could return to the Etihad Stadium in the near future, this time in a non-playing role.
The 33-year-old, who enjoyed a highly decorated spell with City, is tipped to join the club’s coaching staff after bringing his successful playing career to a close.
During his first stint at the Etihad, Gündogan established himself as one of the most influential midfielders in Europe.
Signed from Borussia Dortmund in 2016, he quickly became a trusted figure under Pep Guardiola, combining tactical intelligence with technical brilliance.
His contributions played a crucial role in City’s dominance of English football over the last decade, making him a club legend in the eyes of many supporters.
Gündogan notably captained Manchester City during their historic treble-winning campaign in 2022–23, lifting the Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League trophies in one season.
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His leadership and decisive goals, particularly in the FA Cup final against Manchester United, remain etched in City’s history.
However, he departed the club immediately after that record-breaking campaign, moving to Barcelona in search of a new challenge.
A short return and Galatasaray chapter
Gündogan’s time in Spain was short-lived, lasting just a season before he returned to Manchester City for a second spell.
Unlike his first tenure, the circumstances were very different. City faced significant challenges both on and off the pitch, and while they managed to scrape through to Champions League qualification, it was a campaign that fell far below the club’s lofty standards.
With Guardiola overseeing a crucial rebuild, Gündogan found himself surplus to requirements and left for Galatasaray.
The move to Turkey allowed him to continue playing at a high level while also preparing for life beyond the pitch.
Gündogan tipped for coaching role at City
According to reports from GiveMeSport, Ilkay Gündogan’s Manchester City career could continue in a different capacity.
The midfielder is seen as a natural candidate for a coaching role, with his tactical understanding and leadership qualities making him an ideal fit for the next phase of his football journey.
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His knowledge of Guardiola’s system, his experience across top European leagues, and his bond with the club’s current squad make him a strong candidate to influence the next generation of players.
