Ilkay Gundogan Stresses Player Responsibility for Manchester City’s Performance

Following previous discussions concerning the situation at Manchester City, the perspective of a player, specifically Ilkay Gundogan, is now presented. Gundogan informed BBC Radio Manchester that “When things are going like this there is always talk and always things that come out – people try to look for reasons.” He further asserted, “As players, we have to take responsibility. We have to look at ourselves individually and collectively.” Manchester City’s current performance indicates a deviation from their expected standards, a situation likely attributable to various factors. This is not an unprecedented occurrence for the club, which has previously found itself significantly trailing league leaders during its pursuit of four consecutive titles. Gundogan confirmed that the extensive discourse surrounding City is a recurring phenomenon. He advised, “We have to stay calm. Take that frustration, that anger and produce it into work and dedication for your job and change things.” Gundogan also noted the increased difficulty of the league, stating, “This competition is tough. The majority of teams got better. Not just the first five, six, seven, eight teams – everyone now can play really good football and punish you.” The team, known as “The Blues,” is now entering a two-week international break; however, many of their players will not receive a rest period. With the squad currently stretched and not entirely fit, the upcoming fortnight presents potential concerns for supporters. Gundogan stressed the importance of the break, saying, “We have to stay fit during the international break – maybe that’s the most important for our players right now.” He added, “Get back in the best possible shape and attack fully. That’s something we’ve done in the past. “We need to put a big effort to turn things around the way we want them to.” Total Sport is broadcast on BBC Radio Manchester every weeknight at 18:00, and all Manchester City matches, both home and away, are available live on BBC Radio Manchester. Other programming features Sandi Toksvig alongside Gyles Brandreth, Lulu, Emmanuel Sonubi, and Alan Davies. Audiences can participate in singing along to music from artists such as Queen, Taylor Swift, Bon Jovi, and Katy Perry. Ben Fogle and Kate Humble are scheduled to return for seasonal events at Longleat Safari Park. Additionally, topics including microplastics in air, soil, and waterways, as well as the scale of food waste during this period, are explored. © 2024 BBC. The BBC does not assume responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding its policy on external linking is accessible.