Manchester City star midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has heaped praise on manager Pep Guardiola’s decision to give the squad a mini-break.
Following the 1-1 draw to Burnley FC a fortnight ago, the Spanish tactician opted to allow his players three days off. Guardiola also decided not to place any restrictions on where his players could go.
The 26-year-old opted to take a trip to Abu Dhabi where he was pictured alongside a giraffe.
Gundogan revealed that the mini-break gave the team a chance to recharge their batteries as City look to push on in the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup.
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“My break was very good. I enjoyed some free time with my friends in the sun,” Gundogan was quoted as saying by the Daily Star.
“I wouldn’t say that (we needed it), but we had a few intense weeks behind us and we’ve played so many games already this season and not really had a break where we could just rest for a few days – especially the players who were also on international duty.
“Of course the last months were really hard and there was an opportunity for us and the manager to have such a break.
“I’m sure that everyone enjoyed it and could relax for a few days and have time with family and friends, not thinking about football or anything else.
“This is sometimes necessary, especially in the period that we are in right now, it just feels good.
“With all the competitions it’s just a huge amount of games – so sometimes a break is needed and we appreciate that we are able to have that. It was definitely worth it.
“I am just enjoying that time with the lads, playing with them and having the success is quite fun – so hopefully we can go on in the next few weeks.”
The break appears to have worked it’s magic following Man City’s 5-1 win over Leicester City on Saturday.
Man City are back in action tomorrow evening when they take on FC Basel in the UEFA Champion League.
City boss Pep Guardiola will also have one eye on the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal later on this month.
