Ilkay Gundogan has spoken out on Manchester City’s recent struggles, acknowledging the difficult period the club is going through but expressing confidence that things will improve. After a disappointing 2-0 win over Leicester on December 29, which marked their second victory in 14 matches across all competitions, the German midfielder has taken to social media to reassure City fans.
Gundogan, who returned to Manchester City in the summer after a season with Barcelona, has seen a tough start to this second spell at the Etihad. Despite winning 12 major titles during his previous seven years at City, this campaign has been challenging for both the player and the team. As the season progresses, Gundogan is determined to regain his form and help turn the club’s fortunes around.
QUOTES:
In a message posted to Instagram on December 30, Gundogan addressed the City fans directly:
“I wanted to say thank you for this year’s support. I know it’s been a very difficult and challenging time recently – something we’ve never experienced at Man City together so far. That’s why I appreciate your support even more in the last couple of weeks.
I am confident the next weeks and months of 2025 can only and will get better. We need to regain our self-confidence that we’ve had for so many years. I still feel so good in this city with my family and I am so thankful for everything this city and this club has given to me in my life.
I also know I can do better and I will give everything in 2025 together with our manager, my teammates and the whole club to get more positive results again. There’s still a lot to fight for in this season.
Let’s stick together even more and make 2025 a successful year. See you soon, take care, stay healthy and all the best for 2025 to you and your loved ones!”
RECALL:
This season has been marked by inconsistency for Manchester City, with the team struggling to maintain their usual high standards. A win against Leicester was a welcome result, but the performance still raised concerns about the overall quality and confidence within the squad.
The absence of key players, including Rodri, has compounded the issues, and the pressure has been on players like Gundogan to step up and provide leadership.
The midfielder has faced increased scrutiny, as his performances have not been as consistent as expected. At 34, Gundogan has been asked to shoulder a larger load in midfield, a role that has at times left him exposed.
However, his message reflects a strong resolve to fight back and contribute positively to City’s ongoing campaign.
CITATIONS:
Gundogan’s comments were shared via his official Instagram account on December 30, 2024. His statement was part of a broader effort to reassure City fans amid a difficult spell for the club.
KEEP IN MIND:
With his contract expiring in the summer, Gundogan’s future at Manchester City will be closely tied to his performances over the next few months. The midfielder’s leadership and ability to help the team recover will be crucial not only for the club’s aspirations this season but also for his own future at the club.
As the team looks to regain its rhythm, Gundogan’s role will be pivotal. City’s fans will be hoping the veteran midfielder can turn his personal challenges into motivation and lead the club back to winning ways in 2025.
