Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has made a big admission about the return of Ilkay Gundogan, who spent one season at FC Barcelona.
The German midfielder made his return official on Friday after putting pen-to-paper on a one-year deal, which is subject to international clearance.
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Gundogan joined Barcelona on a free transfer ahead of the 2023/24 season but only lasted one campaign and Guardiola admits it was a surprise.
"Most of the time all the managers say in the transfer window anything can happen so this is the real proof.," Guardiola told a news conference on Friday.
"It was a surprise, unexpected. We know him quite well; the staff and players.
"We know the quality he plays last year at Barcelona. High, high level.
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"We didn't have any doubts when the possibility was open and we're delighted he is back."
The German midfielder played a key role in Man City's treble-winning campaign before he left for Barcelona in 2023.