Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has hailed former player Ilkay Gundogan, who left Manchester City at the end of last season, to sign for Barcelona.

Gundogan was a Man City player for seven years, and after his successful time with the Cityzens, which culminated in their winning the treble last season, the German star decided to move to Barca as a free agent.

Guardiola has wished him well at the Blaugrana, but admitted that he tried convincing Gundogan to remain at the Etihad Stadium.

“Gundogan joining Barca? What could I say – it was an incredible seven years together,” Pep Guardiola told a press conference.

“I don’t have the words to describe my gratitude to him. I wish him all the best in the challenge of his life.

“Barcelona have bought an incredible player, but this is life. Everyone has family challenges.

“We tried to convince him to stay, but we could not. We wish him all the best.”