Summoned from the bench as a second-half substitute with City trailing 2-0 to Villa in a game we needed to win to ensure we claimed the title, Gundogan produced a season-defining cameo.
The 31-year claimed a crucial brace of goals, including the decisive 81st minute winner, and once again showcased his innate talent for being in the right place at the right time.
They were moments everyone at the Etihad – along with the millions more watching around the globe – will never forget.
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But, for the ever-modest Gundogan, he believes other forces were also potentially at work that special day.
“I don’t know, maybe it was destiny, maybe it was a bit of luck,” Gundogan said as he reflected back on that incredible afternoon of high drama.
“But I was twice at the right spot and was able to score.
“I didn’t really have a choice I feel.
“We just had 20 minutes to play, we were 2-0 down so all I wanted to try was to get into the box and smell where the danger might be.”
Further reflecting on one of the most memorable finales in both City and Premier League history, the German midfielder was also keen to praise the crucial impact of his team-mates.
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In particular the key role played by Raheem Sterling and Kevin De Bruyne in providing the assists that created the opportunities for his two goals.
“The first goal, the header, I knew that Raz was going to go to the by-line and cross,” Gundogan affirmed.
“I felt like the danger might be at the second post and the ball was perfect to be honest. I just had to put my head on it.
“The third goal, we all know Kevin’s quality, whipping the ball to the second post.
“So, for me, the timing was important to anticipate when he was going to play the ball.
“(It was) make the run and try to stay onside and the timing was perfect!”
