Pep Guardiola explains how the 'obvious' agreement to renew Barcelona's Ilkay Gundogan came about

Pep Guardiola says it was a “no-brainer” to bring Ilkay Gundogan back to Manchester City.

The German star has rejoined the Premier League champions from Barcelona and signed a one-year contract.

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In seven years at Manchester City, Gundogan won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, two Community Shields and one Champions League.

He also scored 60 goals in 304 appearances, with his last action in a Manchester City shirt coming when he lifted the Champions League in June 2023.

Last season he scored five goals in 51 games for Barcelona.

Gundogan was made available for transfer as Barcelona's financial problems continue as they try to Register new signings like Dani Olmoleaving Guardiola with the easy decision of bringing him back to England.

Speaking about the signing, Guardiola said: “We know him quite well. Me, personally, but also the staff, the players and everyone.”

“We know the quality with which he played last season at Barcelona, ​​​​playing at a very, very high level and playing with consistency, playing many games and producing a lot.

“We had no doubts when the possibility was open and yes, I am absolutely delighted that he is back.

“I got a message from Txiki (Begiristain) saying that Ilkay wanted to talk to you. He called me and asked me about the situation and if there was any possibility of coming back if I wanted to and we said yes straight away.

“I get the feeling that he's not coming here to retire or to remember the good memories we have. We have time for good memories in the future, but now is the time to put on the shoes and play as well as possible.”

Asked if it was an easy yes, Guardiola replied: “Yes.

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“Of course, he is no longer a teenager, but the reason we decided to do it was because of the level at which he played last season.

“If last season had been of a level we didn't expect him to deliver, then we would have to think about it, but even at the Euros with Nagelsmann he played really, really well.

“He knows what we want to do. He doesn’t need to adapt: ​​he knows the city, he knows the club and the way we want to play, so he will adapt well straight away.

“That's why we were able to do it and we did it.”

Speaking to Manchester City's official website after completing the transfer, Gundogan said: “My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure satisfaction for me, both on and off the pitch.

“I grew as a person and as a player, developed a special relationship with the City fans and enjoyed incredible success. It was an exceptional period in my life.

“Having the opportunity to come back here means a lot.

“Everyone knows how much respect I have for Pep. He is the best coach in the world and working with him every day makes you a better player. You feel that he challenges you constantly, which is exactly what any professional looks for. I can’t wait to work with him again.”

“And what can I say about my team-mates here at City… they are world-class footballers. I am really delighted to have the opportunity to train and play alongside them.

“I honestly can’t wait to wear the City shirt again.”