Ilkay Gundogan was freed from Manchester City over the weekend, but Pep Guardiola says he wants the midfielder to stay.
While it may not indicate that the midfielder is about to leave the club, the fact that Gundogan’s name appeared on a list of players whose contracts have ended underscores the uncertainty he still faces at the Etihad.
While there have been shaky rumors about the German moving to Arsenal, Barcelona has offered him a three-year contract.
On Monday, Guardiola addressed the matter, saying, “Yes, I’ve heard Barcelona is interested in him, but I’ve also heard Manchester City is really keen!
I hope he can stay with us, but if Gundogan ultimately decides to join Barcelona, all I can say is that they will make an incredible acquisition.
I am aware that Xavi and Gundogan have had numerous conversations. He hasn’t indicated to me whether he would rather stay or go. We’ve only recently had time to celebrate a lot!
And Gundogan acknowledges that he hasn’t decided where he’ll play football the upcoming season.
There hasn’t been a decision yet; conversations are still going on, he said. Once a choice has been chosen, you’ll be the first to know.
Gundogan continued, “(Guardiola) did not need to praise me in that way; we have been friends for seven years; we have a great deal of respect for one another; and we are very open and honest with one another.