‘Keep him at all costs’, ‘2 years + 1 optional’ – Man City fans react to Fabrizio Romano update on Ilkay Gundogan future

Manchester City fans have been reacting to a post on Twitter which relays a report that claims the club want to keep hold of Ilkay Gundogan amid interest from Barcelona.

Gundogan has played a pivotal role in City’s success in recent years. Not necessarily the first name on the team sheet, but the German is always a reliable player for Pep Guardiola.

With Kalvin Phillips and Rodri out injured, Gundogan has been utilised in a deeper midfield role, and certainly didn’t look out of place.

Now, According to Fabrizio Romano via his Substack column, Manchester City are looking to keep hold of Gundogan, but Barcelona have shown an interest in the midfielder.

“Manchester City want to keep Gundogan but the decision will lie with the player. Pep Guardiola loves the midfielder. Barcelona wanted to sign Gundogan in June but Manchester City wanted to keep him at the club. We will see how contract talks go in the near future but for now, there is nothing advanced or concrete with other clubs,” said Romano.

Gundogan is out of contract at the end of the season, so if he’s looking for a move away from Manchester City in the near future, the decision lies with him.

Since his move to the Etihad in 2016, as Guardiola’s first signing, Gündoğan has made 265 appearances, scoring 51 goals and assisting another 34.

The report was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.

“Keep him at all costs”
Credit: @MCFCGabster

“2 years + 1 optional year please”
Credit: @CityJoul

“So you know what to do Pep, sign your contract first, then convince Gundo to stay.”
Credit: @ronanpatlee

“See, every time i see about someome renewing or signing long term its on the basis of Pep wanting them, he’s definitely staying.”
Credit: @kylemcfc2003

“If pep loose Ilkay Gundogan, it will be a massive loss for Man City squad, to find and to get the player of that quality isnt easy. Gundogan add some extra quality to that squad. He always brings in a new dimensions to man city game when he plays.”
Credit: @Allymasterplan

“Why the delay just give him the contract. he’s very vital to us, a true leader”
Credit: @ElodiStephen

“Praying to god that he signs the extension!”
Credit: @CrustyFlacko