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Gundogan reveals he rejected his 'father figure' to join Man City

The German midfielder described his former Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp as a father figure but has stated that he turned him down.

Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan (right) in action against Liverpool

Bengaluru, March 4: German international midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has revealed that he turned down a move to Liverpool to join Manchester City in 2016.

The German midfielder described his former Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp as a father figure but has stated that he turned him down.

The 27-year-old also stated that Barcelona were also interested in him but he opted to join Manchester City.

The German international has lauded Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola as the 'best manager in the world' and that is the reason why he chose Manchester City rather than Liverpool or Barcelona.

He told Sport Arena Plus: "I was very close to joining Barcelona, but in the end it didn't work out.

"I am where I want to be and I am very happy.

"Klopp wanted me, but I decided to go with Guardiola, because his philosophy is closer to my style of play.

"Klopp is like a father to me. Guardiola is a genius, a master. He is the best manager in the world."

Gundogan was also asked about his choice between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo and was also asked about his childhood idol.

He said, "It's difficult to make a choice, but I feel Messi is more talented.

"I don't have an idol, but I admire Xavi and [Andres] Iniesta."

Gundogan has been quite impressive for Manchester City this season whenever he has featured for the Cityzens.

The German has finally bid a goodbye to his injury problems which had restricted his growth for a long time.

The Cityzens are runaway leaders of the Premier LEague this season and are on course to win the silverware in a few weeks time.

Story first published: Sunday, March 4, 2018, 15:06 [IST]
Other articles published on Mar 4, 2018