Ilkay Gundogan was a second-half substitute during the weekend’s victory over Sheffield United at the Etihad Stadium, a game in which the home side faced a stubborn, organised and spirited opponent.
City ran out 2-0 winners in the end but Pep Guardiola’s side were made to work extremely hard for the three points which saw them close the gap on Leicester City in second to just a solitary point.
The German international entered the field with approximately half-an-hour remaining in the game but his performance during his cameo appearance has led to some fans calling for him to start in their upcoming fixture versus Everton.
Would you like to see Gundogan start versus Everton?
Yes
No
Great job today gundo keep it up
— Bob (@slitnys) December 29, 2019
Gear up to start vs Everton Gundo
I know you will score or Assist.
— Kevin De Best (@geniusKDB) December 29, 2019
You came in and bossed it mate
— J.S (@MCFCBaller) December 29, 2019
Well done bro! ?
— Mohamed Abdulkadir (@mohamedamiin2) December 29, 2019
Well played bro!?
— Nath ? (@NathJMCFC) December 29, 2019
Good work
— Quanbwoyz (@quanbwoyz) December 30, 2019
What do we think?
It remains to be seen whether Gundogan, who is valued at £45m by TransferMarkt, will be handed a start versus Everton in City’s next Premier League fixture. At this particular stage of the season, squad rotation is key and Pep Guardiola is blessed with a number of options in midfield on whom he can rely on.
Everton will arrive at the Etihad Stadium still buzzing having landed Carlo Ancelotti and will no doubt provide a stern test for the current Champions – Gundogan and company will need to be at their absolute best to ensure an upset doesn’t occur.