City star is in no doubt Pep will get it right
ILKAY GUNDOGAN echoes manager Pep Guardiola when he insists Manchester City’s recent form dip won’t force a change in the way they play.
City have gone four matches without a win and now have tricky fixtures against Southampton in the Premier League and neighbours United in the League Cup.
Guardiola says he’s not for turning and the German international midfielder reminds critics the Spaniard’s methods brought 10 victories in the opening 10 games.
“We have so much quality in our squad,” says Gundogan.
“If we play how we did in the first few weeks then I’m quite sure we can be really successful.
“We should just try to focus on the things we did well. That’ s the big challenge for us.
“The most important thing is the way we play. The results will come automatically if we play well.”
A draw at Celtic and defeat at Barcelona has made Champions League qualification surprisingly problematic and City have been caught at the top of the league after losing at Spurs and drawing at home to Everton.
“Tottenham was hard for us,” says Gundogan.
“We didn’t play the football we wanted to play. They are a very special team. That was our first defeat of the season and we have to learn how to handle these games.
“Against Everton we dominated. We played very well and that’s the most important thing.
“I’ve been very impressed with the way Southampton have started the season.
“A lot of big teams struggle against them.
“They have quality in their defence and they will play with their hearts.
“The cup tie against United will be a very close game and comparable to the one in the Premier League.
“The second- half of that one was especially tight and we will look to do better.
“The season is long and there are so many competitions. It’s a lot of games so it’s definitely not easy.
“But that’s why I’m here. I want to be as successful as possible and show why the manager wanted to sign me.
“It’s a big challenge for me after seven years in German football.
“The combination of the club and the manager at the right time was perfect for me.”
Gundogan spent four seasons under Jurgen Klopp at Borussia Dortmund before coming under the influence of Guardiola.
“The football they play is a bit different,” he says.
“Jurgen is the more emotional one and someone who can motivate really well.
“Pep is more tactical, always taking care of details and wants to show you how to do everything.
“Both are world- class managers and both are amazing personalities.”