Ilkay Gundogan started in a midfield trio comprising Rodri and Bernardo Silva as Manchester City drew 2-2 to Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium.
Gundogan was given a chance to redeem himself against Mikel Arteta’s side after missing gilt-edged chances in City’s recent 0-0 draw against Inter Milan.
With Kevin De Bruyne being ruled out due to an injury, it seemed like Phil Foden was set to start in the middle of the park against Arsenal.
However, Pep Guardiola’s plan seemed straightforward; picking a midfield that provides him absolute control while giving his widemen the responsibility of emerging as his primary creators.
The Manchester City boss’ vision seemed to be coming to fruition after Savinho assisted Erling Haaland’s opener and the hosts dominated the first quarter of the game.
But after that, things took an expected route in the contest.
What Gundogan said to Manchester City fans after Arsenal draw
Rodri suffered an injury and was replaced by Mateo Kovacic.
Furthermore, Arsenal were clinical and managed to get into the lead after Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel Magalhaes scored decisive goals for them; stunning the Etihad Stadium.
Kyle Walker disagreed with Michael Oliver’s decision to award Calafiori’s goal — revealing that the referee was the one who called him over alongside fellow skipper Bukayo Saka to have a conversation — which meant he was out of position after the quick free-kick was taken.
Leandro Trossard’s sending off also led Mikel Arteta to consider the decision one that he disagrees with.
Arteta said via HaytersTV: “I prefer not to comment. I’ve seen it. It’s that obvious that I think I’ll leave it to you guys.”
“I’m expecting 100 Premier League games this season to be played 10 against 11 or 10 against 10 or nine against 10. Let’s see.”
After Manchester City shared the spoils with Arsenal, Gundogan sent a message to the club’s supporters after a dramatic game of football came to an end.
The 33-year-old said via Manchester City on X: “Hi guys, this is Gundo. Just wanted to say thank you for your incredible support. It was a very emotional game, emotional 100 minutes but we are happy we were at least able to draw at the end.”
“Onto the next one and hopefully we see you guys at the next game. Take care.”
Ilkay Gundogan got a firm reminder of Premier League football
In the first half, Gundogan looked like he was playing with a point to prove against Arsenal.
The five-time Premier League winner almost got on the scoresheet with a stunning free-kick that struck the post.
Gundogan’s passing was crisp and he was playing with the confidence of a player who has been involved in such a magnitude of games far too often.
However, at Barcelona, perhaps he did not play in such intense games due to La Liga perhaps not being as intense as the Premier League.
Sunday’s clash seemed like a reminder of games that occurred decades ago in English football; typified by harsh challenges, brawls and an animosity between both sets of players.
Being the fierce competitor he is, Gundogan would have enjoyed being a part of such a unique spectacle.
