Pep Guardiola says it is a "complete surprise" that Manchester City have been able to re-sign Ilkay Gundogan just one year after he left for Barcelona.
The former Man City captain completed his return to Etihad Stadium on Friday and could go straight into the squad to face Ipswich Town on Saturday.
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“It was a complete surprise and unexpected. It happened,” Guardiola said in his pre-match press conference.
“We know the quality he played with last season in Barcelona. He played at a high level, consistency with a lot of minutes, producing a lot. We didn’t have any doubts when the possibility was open so we’re absolutely delighted that he’s back.
“He doesn’t need time to settle. If tomorrow he has to play he knows everything. That’s why it’s comfortable for us, and I know his mentality.”
As it stands, Guardiola is anticipating that Gundogan and Brazilian winger Savinho will be the champions' only senior summer signings.
Asked if there will be further additions, he said: “I don't think so but I don't know what's going to happen at the end of the market.
“Maybe something happens in terms of injuries or the market provides something unexpected which financially suits us or tactically-wise as well. I don't think so but I don't know.”
Fitness updates on Savinho and Rodri
Savinho was forced off at half-time on his Premier League debut against Chelsea last Sunday, while Rodri's availability against Ipswich has also been in doubt after his late return to training after winning UEFA EURO 2024 with Spain.
“Savinho feels better," said Guardiola. "I don’t think he’s completely top. He’s been in training. We’ll see today and tomorrow what we will do with him.
“Rodri's not with the group. Maybe today [he can do] partial training.”
Asked whether Rodri will feature against Ipswich, Guardiola said: “I don’t think so, but we’ll see.”
