Arteta's Gundogan comments lead Man City star into making "selfish" response

Ilkay Gundogan has responded to previous comments made about him by former Manchester City assistant and current Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

The pair worked together while at City but Gundogan has stepped up another level since Arteta left the Etihad to take on his first managerial role at Arsenal.

Gundogan was named in the Premier League team of the season last year as his efforts were crucial to Pep Guardiola's side claiming another league title, as the German filled the void left by an injured Kevin De Bruyne.

Ahead of City's clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Gundogan was quizzed on previous comments made by Arteta.

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Gundogan was again excellent as he played a full 90-minute role in City's 2-1 win against PSG, as Guardiola's side qualified as group winners with a game to spare.

After falling behind to a Kylian Mbappe strike, goals from Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus swung the tie and City finished top, although PSG will still qualify in second.

Although Jesus and Sterling took the headlines, Gundogan was excellent throughout, which further validates comments made by Arteta about the German, who he enjoyed working with at City.

Before kick-off, Gundogan spoke to French publication L'Equipe, who revealed to him that Arteta had spoken about him, and said: "Maybe he doesn't shine, but he allows others to shine."

In a star-studded squad, it takes a real world-beater to stand out amongst the rest, but Arteta's comments came after Gundogan revealed to L'Equipe that 'personal statistics and achievements meant little to him'.

Gundogan was clearly flatterred by Arteta's comments, and responded by saying: "I really like this quote, I often use it to describe my game. It's important to have a clear idea of how you can help your teammates or not. I have never been selfish and never will be."

He then went on to say: "Often we focus too much on the players who finish the actions, not on those who initiated them, or those who lay the foundations of the game."

City look back to their best despite the odd result that has gone against them this year, notably the consecutive 1-0 defeats to Leicester and Tottenham to kick off the season before being beaten 2-0 by Crystal Palace in front of their home fans.

However, despite again not starting the season with a recognised striker, they continue to dominate opponents and create that many chances that the goals will inevitably follow, and they will take some stopping as they look to retain their Premier League title.

Guardiola and his side will also be desperate to go one better than last season, and win the illusive Champions League trophy that continues to slip away, and Gundogan will be a crucial part of all success this season.