2026-01-28 13:11:24
Ilkay Gundogan admits that it will be “weird” to play against Manchester City.
The Galatasaray midfielder makes his return to the Etihad Stadium when the Turkish giants face City in the Champions League on Wednesday (28.01.26) and expects to feel a whole host of emotions back at a stadium where had so much success in the past.
Gundogan – who won five Premier League titles and the Champions League with City – said: “For me it is a special game, emotional.
“I think it is going to be a bit weird, also, against my ex-teammates, a coach I have worked with, have many memories with and was very close to.
“In this stadium, playing again, after so much success over so many years, it will be very beautiful and I am looking forward to it.”
Galatasaray need a positive result against City to ensure a spot in the playoff round and Gundogan says that keeping striker Erling Haaland quiet will be essential for their hopes, even though the Norwegian has been struggling in front of goal recently.
The former Germany international said: “Never underestimate him. He is a goal machine and we all know he has everything to score as many goals as he wants in a game or a whole season.
“It is almost impossible to control him throughout 90 minutes, but it is important not just to defend against him but the whole team collectively to try to avoid him getting into situations where he can score. That is one of the secrets to get something out of the game.”
Gundogan is still a keen viewer of City’s games and has backed his former team to get the better of Arsenal in the Premier League title race.
He said: “Of course I am following them. I am still a fan of this club, this team and this manager. I try to watch as many games as possible.
“I still believe they are able to beat Arsenal. We all know once this City team gets momentum they are able to go on a long run of being unbeaten.”
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