Manchester City supporters are relieved after Ilkay Gundogan’s early exit from the World Cup was confirmed. Schadenfreude was rife on social media as Germany crashed out of the competition at the group stage.
A convincing 4-2 victory over Costa Rica was not enough to save the four-time world champions because Japan triumphed in the other Group E clash against Spain. The latter were also heading out at one point when Germany were trailing, but a late comeback saved manager Luis Enrique’s blushes.
An early exit in Qatar means Germany have failed to get out of the group stage in consecutive World Cups for the first time in their history. There was little sympathy from City supporters online, who viewed Gundogan’s early exit as a positive.
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The 32-year-old started all three games at the tournament and scored Hansi Flick’s opening goal in their shock 2-1 defeat to Japan. Pep Guardiola has started Gundogan in 10 Premier League fixtures this season, proving his worth to City's midfield.
However, there could be another potential exit on the horizon as the midfielder enters the final six months of his contract. Contradicting reports have emerged on whether Gundogan will pen an extension but talks could hasten now his World Cup is over.
Germany’s shock exit came on a day when Kevin De Bruyne also stuttered at the group stage. Romelu Lukaku misses a hatful of chances in a goalless draw with Croatia, eliminating Belgium and causing Roberto Martinez to resign after the game.
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