Man City star Ilkay Gundogan drops major hint over his next Pep Guardiola-inspired career move

Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has indicated he would like to move into coaching once his playing career is over, the former Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona playmaker having recently triggered a one-year extension at the Etihad Stadium.

Gundogan returned to City in August following a year away at Barcelona, signing a 12-month deal with an option for a second. Having made the second-most appearances for the club this season, that option has been triggered. He turns 35 in October, so the 2025-26 season is likely to be his last for City and perhaps the final campaign of a superb career.

Speaking to The National, Gundogan said:

"I want to continue coaching and I want to progress in that field but it is something that isn’t possible right now because of playing. I have previously worked with City’s under-16s and I really enjoyed it. I have worked under some amazing coaches and they inspire you. I have had the privilege of working with Pep for several years, it is automatically something I think about and consider for the future.

"Being part of City for so many years I can see myself coaching in the future and of course I love football way too much to stay out of it once my playing career is over.

"I always tell myself I could become a really good coach if I have the guts to do it and the energy and stamina to go for it in the long run. But I know also that it is a lot of work when I see Pep and our coaching staff and the working hours they put in. It is much more than a player. It’s a workload you need to accept and be comfortable with. I took the first steps to see if it was something that would interest me and so far it has."

Gundogan has his UEFA B Licence, but would still need to secure his A Licence and his Pro Licence to coach at the highest level. Before that, though, he will be tasked with helping City secure Champions League football for next season. With City’s squad showing its age at many points this season, Gundogan might find himself in more of a behind-the-scenes role next campaign if the club are able to invest in younger players the next transfer window.