Ilkay Gundogan future looks uncertain but he should be regarded as a Man City great

In 10 years time when football fans look back at the great Manchester City side of Pep Guardiola, a number of players will stand out as the best of a generation.

The likes of Sergio Aguero, Kevin de Bruyne, Ederson, Bernardo Silva and Raheem Sterling - among others - have all embodied the brilliance associated with Guardiola sides. But there is another man who in years to come likely won't be spoken about in such reverent tones despite the enormous contribution he has made since arriving at the Etihad Stadium.

Ilkay Gundogan was Guardiola's first signing upon becoming City boss in 2016, and after a first season disrupted by serious injury has enjoyed a fine career in sky blue. However, with his current City contract set to expire in June 2023, his future in Manchester is uncertain.

READ MORE:Man City international round-up as Riyad Mahrez helps Algeria towards World Cup and young Blues feature

"There are no concrete talks, but we have a good relationship. I'm still patient. There's no hurry," the German midfielder said of his situation when speaking to Kicker this week.

"I'm very happy at Manchester City, football-wise there isn't a more attractive place at the moment. I can imagine staying there beyond 2023."

City don't mess around when it comes to tying down their top talents to new long-term contracts years before their deals expire. Over the past couple of years the likes of John Stones, Ruben Dias, Ederson, De Bruyne and Joao Cancelo have all committed their futures to the club, while Phil Foden looks set to follow suit in the coming months.

Age - and an abundance of options and younger talents in his position - might have prevented a similar offer being made to Gundogan. By the end of next season he will be 32,