"Can't explain how good this guy is" - Jack Grealish hails Germany superstar as latter shines in win over Hungary at Euro 2024
Jack Grealish waxed lyrical about Ilkay Gundogan after his former Manchester City teammate dazzled in Germany's 2-0 win against Hungary at Euro 2024. Julian Nagelsmann's men booked their place in the last 16 after making it two wins from two in Group A.
Gundogan, 33, was on the scoresheet in the victory at Stuttgart Arena on Wednesday (June 19). The Barcelona midfielder arrived late in the box to strike home the host nation's second of the evening (67'). He initially set up Jamal Musiala for the Bayern Munich attacker's opener (22').
Grealish watched Germany's win from home after missing out on a spot in England's Euro 2024 spot. He was breathtaking by his former City captain's display, writing on his Instagram story:
"Can't explain how good this guy is man. Honestly one of the best I've ever had the pleasure of playing with."
Gundogan also made two key passes, created one big chance, and won one of two ground duels against Hungary. It was a man-of-the-match performance from the veteran midfielder looking to captain Germany to glory on home soil at Euro 2024.
The hosts booked their place in the knockout stages with a game to spare. They thrashed Scotland 5-1 in the tournament's opener (June 14) and face Switzerland in their final Group A game (June 23).
"He was key" - Pep Guardiola joined Grealish in lavishing praise on Germany's Ilkay Gundogan ahead of Euro 2024
Gundogan was a massive hit during his seven years at City, helping them win five Premier League titles. He was captain when the Cityzens won the continental treble in the 2022-23 season.
The 78-cap Germany international made 304 appearances at the Etihad, posting 60 goals and 38 assists. He was vital for Pep Guardiola, and the City boss touched on his importance in a glowing verdict ahead of Euro 2024 (via Barca Blaugranes):
"lkay didn’t talk much, but when he did, everyone listened to him, including me as a coach. It was clear and direct. He is a very intelligent player, one of the smartest I have ever coached. He was the key to our success."
Gundogan left City for Barca last summer after his contract with the Premier League giants expired. He's made a fine start to life at Camp Nou with five goals and 14 assists in 51 games across competitions.