Transfer: Why we brought Gundogan back to Manchester City - Guardiola

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has explained why the club brought back midfielder Ilkay Gundogan to the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City revealed earlier on Friday that the Premier League winners have re-signed the Germany international from Barcelona.

Gundogan departed Guardiola's squad to join the La Liga club last year.

Guardiola stated in his pre-match news conference ahead of Manchester City's Premier League match against Ipswich Town on Saturday that the Cityzens brought Gundogan back to the club because the 33-year-old wanted to return.

"The important thing is he wants to come back," Guardiola stated.

"I received a message from [director of football] Txiki [Begiristain] stating that 'Ilkay wants to talk to you and call you'. I answered 'yes', and now we're here, and he needs to have a successful season."

"It appears that he does not come to retire or to recall pleasant memories. We have time for that in the future. Now is the moment to put your shoes on and perform your best."