"There's Probably Nothing Better" – Ilkay Gundogan Reveals Dream of Becoming Pep Guardiola’s Assistant at Man City

Ilkay Gundogan has hinted at hiss long-term ambition of stepping into coaching—and revealed that becoming Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City would be the “perfect start.”

The 34-year-old midfielder, who left City for Barcelona in 2023, was surprisinglly brought back to Manchester by Guardiola earlier this season to bolster the squad with leadership and experience. But now, Gundogan is thinking beyond the pitch and setting his sights on a future in management.

Speaking to BILD, the former Germany international opened up about how much he would value learning from Guardiola in a coaching capacity.

“I didn’t ask him, no. But there’s probably nothing better than starting out as Pep’s assistant,” Gundogan admitted. “The examples of the past few years have shown that it can pave the way for a coaching career. Being Pep’s assistant coach would be extremely appealing to me.”

Gundogan’s comments are more than just wishful thinking. During his first spell at City, he quietly began preparing for life after playing by spending time with the club’s academy coaches as he worked toward earning his coaching badges.

Now, after returning to Manchester, the former City captain seems more inspired than ever to follow in the footsteps of others who began their post-playing careers under Guardiola’s wing. Mikel Arteta, for instance, went from Guardiola’s assistant at City to managing Arsenal and turning them into Premier League contenders.

Gundogan, who won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the Champions League with City, is known not only for his calm leadership on the fiield but also for his sharp footballing mind—something Guardiola has praised in the past.

While his playing days may be running out, Gundogan’s vision for the future is already taking shape. And if Pep comes calling, don’t be surprised if he takes his place alongside him on the touchline sooner than expected.