£20m Germany international Ilkay Gundogan returns for Man City after 8 month absence

Manchester City star midfielder Ilkay Gundogan finally played his first game since suffering a knee injury.

The Germany international has been sidelined since last December after tearing ligaments in his knee.

Gundogan joined Man City for their pre-season tour of the USA but did not feature in any pre-season friendly for Pep Guardiola’s side.

The 26-year-old replaced Phil Foden for the final 20 minutes of the game against the Spanish side Girona on Tuesday night.

Gundogan has suffered three major injuries under four years. The Germany international was recovering from an injury when City signed him for £20 million from Borussia Dortmund (BBC).

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City ended up losing the game by a 1-0 score line. The fixture was arranged to cement a partnership between the clubs.

Summer signing Benjamin Mendy was not involved as he continues his recovery from a thigh problem.

Man City take on Everton in the Premier League on Monday night at the City of Manchester Stadium.