UEFA Champions League 2018-19, Manchester City 7-0 FC Schalke 04: 5 Hits and Flops

#2 Hit: Ilkay Gundogan

Ilkay was silky and at his magical best in creative midfield on this occasion

Ilkay Gundogan's creative brilliance has never been a question - his fitness and consistency to perform though are constantly up for debate. On this occasion, the German playmaker showed us exactly what he can do when on top form. If not for his individual display, City wouldn't have won so comfortably.

Continuing to spray excellent passes over short and long distances, finding open teammates in space, the 28-year-old orchestrated attacks similarly to the way David Silva takes over games in possession.

He played an integral role in a number of attacks, namely City's first two goals. It was his probing pass which prompted Bernardo Silva's run, resulting in a spot-kick. His fantastic ball into Sterling saw the Englishman tee up Aguero for his second just minutes later. Match stats: A game-high 144 touches, two key passes (92% pass accuracy), two aerial duels won, one dribble and three interceptions completed.

Out of contract next summer, talks over an improved deal at Eastlands have stalled for the meantime and unless that changes in the coming months, there's a dilemma ahead for City to ponder. Being their only natural Fernandinho replacement in defensive-midfield - not his preferred role - they have to risk losing him for free or cash in whilst he's still of value. After a display like this one, he's certainly forcing them to sit up and take note.