Source: REUTERS/Hannah McKay
[Saba Sports News] According to British media, Pep Guardiola has already discussed the possibility of Ilkay Gundogan staying as an assistant coach after retirement, and the player has obtained a UEFA B coaching license. In early April, Gundogan triggered a one-year automatic renewal clause after reaching the required number of appearances. During the final push for the Champions League qualification, Guardiola heavily relied on his trusted players, and Gundogan, as an older player, continued to be selected, which became a topic of debate among fans. Some blamed his continued appearances for the decline in movement quality of Manchester City last season. As Guardiola looks to slim down the squad, Gundogan has become one of the players whose future is being speculated. Gundogan’s situation will be worth watching, as he is highly valued by Guardiola, and they have even discussed the possibility of Gundogan becoming Guardiola’s assistant coach after retiring. He has already obtained a UEFA B coaching license in Germany. Therefore, as long as he believes he can still play an important role at City, Gundogan is likely to stay.