Manchester City came from behind against Paris Saint-Germain to win 2-1 in their final Champions League group game and Ilkay Gundogan was one of many players who impressed.
The 31-year-old, who was given a player rating of 9/10 by the Manchester Evening News, seldom relinquished possession at the Etihad and provided a threat in the final third, so he was lauded by supporters on social media.
U had a tremendous game. City deseved more than the goals
— Evans Ababio (@amankeve) November 25, 2021
You have become the perfect creative midfielder, Ilkay. You combine an exceptional footballing brain with a team ethic that is pure joy to watch. The next 5 years will be so much fun. Ich hoffe, du bleibst noch lange in der City. 💙💙💙
— Mark Geraghty (@Minchroadster) November 25, 2021
Brilliant tonight Ilkay 👍👏👏👏💙💙💙
— eileen mayall (@aveagudun) November 24, 2021
Unbelievable tonight Gundo!!! Great work!
— Tommy (@fanatic_city) November 24, 2021
Performed like a leader, composure and quality coming out your ears, everyone bounced off it, we have way more than just one captain at this club, Ilkay is easily one of them, love him
— SeannnHLM (@ShaunHLM) November 24, 2021
Bossed it tonight
— 7 💫 (@MCFCHag) November 24, 2021
My God Silky Ilkay was on point today what a game. Phenomenal work rate. pic.twitter.com/mka3wmNgbz
— PEP The Master Mind (@pep_mind) November 24, 2021
Against PSG, Gundogan played for 90 minutes, had 76 touches, won one aerial duel, completed 96.8% of his 62 passes, created two chances, had two shots, whipped in five crosses with 40% finding a teammate, made one interception and had two successful dribbles.
The German international has made 14 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring two goals with two assists. He remains a regular under Pep Guardiola and is still turning in exceptional performances on the biggest scale, so the fans’ praise was deserved.
Man City have now booked their place in the last-16 of the Champions League as group winners, which should afford them a more lenient draw in the next round. After losing in the Champions League final last season, Guardiola will be desperate to go one better this time so he’ll be delighted to have seen past PSG.
In other news, Jack Grealish is struggling at Man City