Manchester City have dedicated a training pitch to former captain Ilkay Gundogan as a tribute to his services for the club. Gundogan, who turns 33 today, was the first City captain to lift the Champions League trophy. He also won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and four League Cups during a seven-year spell at the Etihad. A mosaic commemorating Gundogan's winning goal in the 2021-22 Premier League title decider against Aston Villa will also be displayed near the training pitch.Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: “On behalf of his highness Sheikh Mansour, on behalf of everyone associated with Manchester City, it is really my privilege and honour to unveil this mosaic that is a tribute to every accomplishment you’ve made as part of this Manchester City family over the years. “You have been an important leader, an important pillar of a part of history – of the history of this club that will never be forgotten. “We are all so grateful, so thankful for the great memories you gave us – as the first Manchester City captain to lift the Champions League, as a player that’s lifted five Premier Leagues, so many trophies as part of his journey with the club. “But beyond these great accomplishments as a football player, your accomplishments as a leader, both in the club and in the community is never going to be forgotten. “Today I want to thank you on behalf of everyone associated with the club and this mosaic is our gift to you to keep you part of the history of this club, of this institution, a place that you can come and always know that you have left an important stamp that will be never forgotten.”
That’s a good argument. I’m looking at the squad and 7 sounds about right. How do you feel about players like Beckham or Ronaldo who spent more years abroad than at the club?
I included becks in the 99 squad. I’d say it was probably more 50-50 United vs abroad for him, but it helps that he’s a United fan and still talks quite passionately about United.
I probably don’t think of Ronaldo as a United legend. He was an amazing player who went on to be one of the worlds best, but the best moments of his career were definitely not in a United shirt.
That’s a good argument. I’m looking at the squad and 7 sounds about right. How do you feel about players like Beckham or Ronaldo who spent more years abroad than at the club?
I included becks in the 99 squad. I’d say it was probably more 50-50 United vs abroad for him, but it helps that he’s a United fan and still talks quite passionately about United.
I probably don’t think of Ronaldo as a United legend. He was an amazing player who went on to be one of the worlds best, but the best moments of his career were definitely not in a United shirt.