Ilkay Gündogan’s splendid form and impeccable achievements have earmarked him as a notable contender for Ballon d’Or 2023. His voyage from Manchester City to the esteemed grounds of FC Barcelona has been nothing short of phenomenal, underscoring why he’s in the running for the coveted Ballon d’Or 2023.
Ballon d’Or 2023: Gündogan’s Skyrocketing Performance
Ilkay Gündogan’s final year at Manchester City (2022/2023) was nothing short of a football fairytale, showcasing a midfielder at the pinnacle of his prowess. The German maestro was a linchpin in the heart of City’s midfield, orchestrating a historic Treble that etched his and the team’s name in football annals.
Ilkay Gündogan’s journey to his triumphant moment in the Champions League with Manchester City in 2023 was nothing short of a roller-coaster ride, laden with lessons and experiences that shaped his resolve, especially at a time when a Ballon d’Or 2023 nomination seemed far. His story in the Champions League narrates a tale of perseverance, starting from his first appearance in the finals in 2013 to his vindicating victory a decade later. Through this period, reviewing all 60 goals he scored for Manchester City showcases his growing mastery and pivotal role in the team’s success.
In 2013, a young Gündogan found himself amidst the grandeur of the Champions League final, representing Borussia Dortmund against their fierce German rivals, Bayern Munich. The match was a closely contested affair, ending in a 2-1 victory in favor of Bayern Munich. Despite the loss, Gündogan left a mark by scoring for Dortmund, showcasing a glimpse of the grand stage prowess that would define his later career.
Fast forward to 2021, Gündogan once again graced the coveted finals, this time donned in Manchester City’s colors. The opponent was Chelsea, and the stakes were high. However, the narrative of victory eluded him once more as Chelsea clinched the title with a 1-0 scoreline. The ghosts of past defeats lingered, but the tale was far from over.
However, the fates had a different script for the midfield maestro in his third voyage to the Champions League finals. This time, clad in Manchester City’s sky blue, Gundogan was not to be denied. His poise, determination, and sublime skill set the stage for a fairy tale ending to his Champions League odyssey. The final whistle against Inter Milan in a tightly contested 1-0 victory didn’t just mark City’s first-ever Champions League trophy; it was a sweet chorus of redemption for Gundogan. The completion of the second English Premier League treble was a testament to his indomitable spirit, finally breaking the Champions League final jinx that had haunted him. His critical goals throughout the season were the catalysts behind City’s glorious run, showcasing his knack for rising to the occasion when the stakes were sky-high.
The numbers tell a story of a midfield maestro in fine fettle. Over the course of the season, Gündogan featured in 50 games for the club, where he netted 13 goals and provided seven assists, embodying a perfect blend of creativity and goal-scoring prowess from midfield. His double in the unforgettable FA Cup final win against rivals Manchester United, was a testament to his big-game temperament, where his brace led City to a 2-1 victory.
Furthermore, his crucial contributions were not just limited to domestic affairs; on the European stage too, he shined brightly. In a significant league game against Everton, he scored two goals and set up another, showcasing his ability to turn up in crucial games, driving City to a 3-0 win.
His notable performance was not a flash in the pan. It was a result of relentless hard work, unmatched skill, and a deep understanding of the game, which culminated in a season that saw him captain Manchester City to a historic treble, scoring crucial goals in the FA Cup final and contributing significantly in other competitions.
The Ballon d’Or 2023 contender’s impeccable performance in his last year at Manchester City did not just endear him to the fans, but it also sent a strong statement to the football world about the caliber of player he is. His journey was about grace, leadership, and unmatched skill, and his legacy at Manchester City is one that will be reminisced with a lot of fondness.
Review all 60 goals scored by Gundogan for Manchester City since 2016:
The Barcelona Chapter
His move to FC Barcelona was a significant chapter in his career, where he seamlessly fit into the Catalonian style of play. His versatility and silent leadership have already showcased his importance in the squad, providing 4 assists in 10 games, making him a key piece in the new Barça setup.
His impact was felt almost immediately, with Gündogan notching two assists in his first four competitive games for Barça.
Why Ballon d’Or 2023?
The transition from Premier League to La Liga, and continuing to perform at the pinnacle makes Gündogan a strong contender for Ballon d’Or 2023. His consistency, ability to adapt, and perform on big stages, coupled with his recent treble achievement and a significant move to Barca, paint the picture of a player who is at the peak of his game, deserving a spot among the elites vying for Ballon d’Or 2023.
Manchester City’s Stellar Season: Ballon d’Or 2023 Nominees of Former Teammates
In addition to Gündogan, a host of former teammates and current Manchester City players have received nominations for the esteemed Ballon d’Or 2023, reflecting the team’s remarkable performance over the season. Here are the other City luminaries who have secured a place on the Ballon d’Or 2023 shortlist, accompanied by a concise overview of their contributions:
Rodri: The steadfast midfielder has become an indispensable part of City’s core, showcasing a blend of defensive solidity and offensive initiation. His instrumental role in achieving a treble has deservedly secured him a nomination for the Ballon d’Or 2023.
Julian Alvarez: The burgeoning forward has evolved into an essential element of City’s offensive lineup, netting critical goals in pivotal moments. His remarkable contributions, leading to a treble and a world championship, have rightfully earned him a nomination for the Ballon d’Or 2023.
Kevin De Bruyne: Boasting exceptional playmaking abilities, the Belgian midfielder remains the creative powerhouse fueling City’s offensive endeavors, a prowess that has landed him a nomination for the Ballon d’Or 2023.
Ruben Dias: His steadfast defensive performances have been a linchpin in maintaining a solid backline for City, making him a deserving nominee for the Ballon d’Or 2023.
Josko Gvardiol: The proficient defender swiftly became a reliable asset to City’s defence, demonstrating his adaptability to the English game. His nomination for the Ballon d’Or 2023, however, stems from his outstanding performances last season while playing for Leipzig.
Erling Haaland: Haaland’s goal-scoring heroics have been instrumental in City’s success, marking him as one of the formidable contenders for the Ballon d’Or 2023.
Bernardo Silva: Silva’s creativity and tireless work rate have been a driving force in the midfield, contributing significantly to City’s triumphant campaign.
And discover the highly probable winner, a former Barcelona player and legend: