Manchester City veteran Ilkay Gundogan has revealed his ambition to join Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff when he eventually hangs up his boots a move inspired by the successful careers launched under the Catalan mastermind.
Man City Veteran Ilkay Gundogan Keen on Becoming Pep Guardiola’s Assistant
Gundogan, 34, has enjoyed a decorated playing career under Guardiola, having been one of the first signings after the manager arrived at City in 2016.
With nearly a decade of experience working alongside one of football’s greatest tactical minds, the German midfielder sees a future in coaching, and ideally, alongside Guardiola himself.
“I haven’t asked him, but there’s probably nothing better than starting out as Pep’s assistant,” Gundogan told SportBild.
“The examples of the last few years have shown that it can pave the way for a coaching career. Being Pep’s assistant coach would be extremely appealing to me.”
Guardiola’s coaching tree has already produced several prominent managers. Mikel Arteta, now leading Arsenal’s Premier League title push, served as Guardiola’s assistant from 2016 until taking the Arsenal job in late 2019.
More recently, Enzo Maresca worked on Guardiola’s staff during the club’s historic 2022/23 treble-winning season before stepping into his own managerial role.
Even at Barcelona, Guardiola’s former assistant Tito Vilanova succeeded him in 2012, underscoring the value of learning under the City boss.
Though Gundogan’s contract at City runs until 2026, and he remains a key figure on the pitch, the midfielder is already contemplating life after playing.
His football intelligence and leadership have long been lauded, making him a natural fit for coaching.
Guardiola’s current backroom staff includes Juanma Lillo, a veteran coach with over 40 years of experience who rejoined City in 2023, and Carlo Vicens, a younger figure who rose through the club’s academy system.
However, the window of opportunity for Gundogan may be limited. Guardiola recently hinted that his time at City could end in 2027, when his contract expires, stating his desire to take a break from football.
Gundogan’s coaching aspirations reflect his deep respect for Guardiola and the culture the Catalan has built at City.
As one of the most influential midfielders of his generation, Gundogan appears well-positioned to carry Guardiola’s tactical legacy forward — if timing allows.
For City fans, the prospect of seeing Gundogan transition from midfield maestro to touchline strategist would not only symbolize continuity but also cement his status as a club legend.
