
Joao Cancelo has lauded his former Manchester City teammate Ilkay Gundogan after Arsenal missed out on his transfer following his move to Barcelona.
There was a lot of talk that Mikel Arteta wanted to be re-united with the 32-year-old at the Emirates, but it wasn’t meant to be as he secured a free transfer to La Liga champions Barcelona on Monday, as they confirmed on Twitter.
When Ilkay Gundogan thanked fans on his Instagram after his move was confirmed, Joao Cancelo spoke highly about the big-game player.
Of course, the versatile fullback was in Munich as he watched Gundogan score some important goals during Man City’s run to the Treble.
But now he starts a new chapter in his trophy-laden career and that’s trying to earn legendary status at the Nou Camp.
“What a player,” wrote Cancelo in the comments section of Gundogan’s post. “I wish you all the best for you and your beautiful family.”
Arsenal miss out on Gundogan’s signing
Declan Rice is Arsenal’s number one target this summer, as the north London club fight to push Manchester City away from trying to lure the 24-year-old to the Etihad.
The dream scenario for Arteta was to get Rice through the doors, get Gundogan for nothing and then perhaps push for another big-money midfield signing.
Whilst he can probably accept Gundogan not signing, not only will Arteta be unhappy if Rice slips through his fingers, the fans will make sure he knows about it also.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
