Guardiola ready to play Gundogan against Ipswich Town, if..

Pep Guardiola says Ilkay Gundogan doesn’t need any special introduction to the Premier League and could make his second debut for the club when they entertain Ipswich Town at the Etihad stadium on Saturday.

The German left Manchester City at the end of the 2022/23 season to join Barcelona but after a year outside Manchester, the incredibly talented midfielder is coming back to the Etihad stadium as a new signing.

Guardiola expressed surprise and delight at getting the player back and hinted he could be in action on Saturday against the Premier League returnee.

‘We know the quality he played with last season in Barcelona. He played at a high level, consistency with a lot of minutes, producing a lot. We didn’t have any doubts when the possibility was open so we’re absolutely delighted that he’s back.

‘He doesn’t need time to settle. If tomorrow he has to play he knows everything. That’s why it’s comfortable for us, and I know his mentality,’ said Guardiola at his pre-match presser on Friday.