Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Ilkay Gundogan could be available to make his second debut for Manchester City in Saturday's Premier League clash against Ipswich Town at the Etihad Stadium.
The Citizens announced on Friday morning that the 33-year-old has re-joined the club on a one-year deal that includes the option of a further year after leaving Barcelona on a free transfer.
Gundogan spent seven hugely successful years at Man City between 2016 and 2023 before moving to Barcelona last summer, making 51 appearances in all competitions for the Catalan giants.
However, Barca's financial predicament has ultimately led to the midfielder's swift departure and return to Man City, where he won a total of 14 trophies during his first stint at the club.
If Gundogan's international clearance arrives in time for Saturday's 3pm kickoff against Ipswich, the midfielder will be available for selection.
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Gundogan could make second Man City debut vs. Ipswich
Speaking about Gundogan at a press conference on Friday, Guardiola said: "He played really well last season and still I know how competitive he is and he drives his mates to their best.
"When it happened I said yes. I love midfield players and I love his qualities. He gives us an alternative in the way we want to play. He can adapt in two or three roles perfectly.
"He doesn't need time to settle. If tomorrow he has to play he knows everything. That's why it's comfortable for us and I know his mentality.
"He didn't come to live his last two or three years here. He will be upset when it's not going well and happy and thinking of the next one when it's going well.
"That's why he's back - he's beloved of his mates. For the fans I'm pretty sure of that. He's going to try to fight again for us."
Meanwhile, Guardiola has admitted that star midfielder Rodri is unlikely to feature this weekend, while new signing Savinho will be assessed ahead of kickoff.
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Rodri set to miss Ipswich clash, Savinho to be assessed
Rodri has only recently returned to Man City training following an extended break after a gruelling 2023-24 campaign for club and country, winning the Premier League title with the Citizens before celebrating Euro 2024 glory with Spain earlier this summer.
The 28-year-old, who missed both the Community Shield and last weekend's 2-0 win over Chelsea in the Premier League, has been training separately as he continues to build up his match fitness.
Meanwhile, Savinho was handed his full debut against Chelsea last time out, but was taken off at half time after picking up a minor knee injury.
"[Savinho] feels better. I don't think he's completely top. He's been in training," said Guardiola. "We'll see today and tomorrow what we will do with him."
On Rodri, the Citizens boss added: "He's getting better. He's not with the group. Maybe today [he can do] partial training."
As for the possibility of Rodri playing in some capacity against Ipswich, Guardiola added: "I don't think so, but we'll see."
One player who is definitely ruled out of Saturday's contest is Oscar Bobb, who is facing several months on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on a fractured leg last week.
Oliver Thomas
