Ilkay Gundogan Opens Up on Man City’s New signings Ahead of Club World Cup

Ilkay Gundogan has broken his silence with a message full of belief and hope, as Manchester City ushers in a wave of new talent. With nearly £110 million spent to strengthen the squad ahead of the Club World Cup, the veteran midfielder sees more than just numbers—he sees opportunity, hunger, and a new chapter waiting to be written.

City’s recent signings—including the likes of Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, and Rayan Ait Nouri—have brought fresh energy into the dressing room. While Marcus Bettinelli joins as a backup goalkeeper, the others are here to fight for their place, to challenge, and to elevate the standards that slipped last season.

Gundogan, who returned to Manchester last summer after a season away in Barcelona, endured a difficult campaign—more minutes on the pitch than expected, but far fewer moments of joy as City struggled for consistency. Now, the whispers say he might be on Galatasaray’s radar, yet his heart, it seems, is still painted sky blue.

Rather than shrinking in the face of added competition, the 34-year-old embraces it. He sees it as fuel. “It will increase the competition and motivation, I am sure,” he shared with the Manchester Evening News. “When new players join the club, they bring hunger and energy, and that lifts everyone. I’m excited to play alongside them.”

The Club World Cup, he believes, will be the perfect setting to bond—on and off the pitch. A time to gel, to learn one another’s rhythms, and to reignite the fire that defines City at its best.

“Last season, we know we didn’t live up to our usual standards—but that’s behind us now,” Gundogan said. “This is a fresh start, and we’re full of motivation to begin this season the right way.”

As City prepares to face elite clubs from around the globe, Gundogan knows what’s at stake. And with quiet confidence, he and his teammates are ready—not just to compete, but to come together as one. “We’re giving it everything. This tournament is tough, but it’s also a chance to test ourselves, to grow as a squad, and to show the world what Manchester City is made of.”