Manchester City told Sky Sports "today is not a day to be asking questions about the future" as doubts continue over Ilkay Gundogan's next move.
The German skippered the Etihad outfit to yet another Premier League title as he hoisted the trophy aloft following their win over Chelsea. Gundogan remains a crucial figure for City and has come up with several big moments as Pep Guardiola's side chased down Arsenal.
All that has been achieved amid doubt over his future in Manchester however, with his contract winding down. Barcelona are keen on acquiring the midfielder, although City have now tabled a two-year offer that could tempt Gundogan - but no decision has yet been made.
The Premier League side made it known to Sky Sports, who were speaking with several members of the squad, that they didn't want Gundogan's future to be their main focus. Presenter Dave Jones said: "Ilkay Gundogan, who as we heard his future is in question and Manchester City have made it clear to us that today is not a day to be asking questions about the future, it’s about the here and now.
"Manchester City - title winners for the third successive season and Ilkay Gundogan the man lifting the trophy for the first time, you could tell how proud he was of that. As Roy [Keane] said, a special player, and it would certainly leave a hole in this Man City team were he to leave."
The German, who joined in 2016 and has now claimed five league titles, but this was his first as captain with Vincent Kompany and Fernandinho previously leading the side. Gundogan said on the occasion: "It’s special. For me, lifting this one for the first time as the captain of this special group, it means even more. It’s an enjoyable day."
He was later quizzed on his stellar form, to which he replied: "I actually have no secret, to be honest. Or maybe my secret is just to stay calm and stay patient. I remember the end of last season I hadn’t played for a couple of games, was a little bit angry and frustrated but somehow I managed to stay calm and focused on the important things.
"At the end of the day that’s the success of the team and that’s exactly what we are doing day-by-day. We have a special group and this season feels even more special than previous ones - the atmosphere at the training ground, on the pitch, even though we all compete with each other it feels like when it comes to the crucial times we fight together.
"We try to go together throughout difficult periods and we had a few this season. Two more finals to go, we are looking forward to it and my arms are ready to lift two more titles!"
