‘Stay True to Ourselves’—Ilkay Gundogan Reminds His Manchester City Teammates What They Must Do To Win FA Cup semi-final vs Nottingham Forest

Ilkay Gundogan has called on his Manchester City teammates to stay confident as they prepare for a huge FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest at Wembley Stadium this Sunday.

City have been in great form lately, winning five of their last six games (including a big win over Bournemouth) and drawing the other. This good run of results has created a positive and exciting mood around the team — something Gundogan wants to keep going as they chase a spot in the FA Cup final and a place in next season’s Champions League.

“We have to be confident,” Gundogan said.
“When we play with confidence, we automatically play better. Our game is all about being brave and keeping possession of the ball. We need that confidence because there were times earlier this season when we didn’t have it, and it showed. We must stay true to our style and remember what we’re fighting for. If we do that, I believe we can reach the final.”

Gundogan is excited about playing at Wembley again, calling it a “special occasion,” especially as City are making history by reaching a record seventh FA Cup semi-final in a row.

“It feels amazing,” he added.
“Wembley is always special, and in recent years we’ve had great success there. Now, we have the chance to reach another FA Cup final, and we’re excited. It’s our last chance to win a trophy this season, so we’re ready and determined to give everything.”

City will face a tough challenge against Nottingham Forest, who have been a surprise package this season. Under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, Forest are currently fourth in the Premier League and fighting for a Champions League spot, just like City.

Gundogan made it clear that City are taking Forest very seriously.

“The FA Cup is full of tradition and big moments for big players,” he said.
“We really want to win it again. But Forest are a tricky team. They even beat us a few weeks ago, and they’re having a great season. It’s going to be a tough match, but we’re going to Wembley to win.”

The last time Gundogan played at Wembley, he was the hero — scoring both goals in City’s 2-1 win over Manchester United in the FA Cup final, helping complete the historic Treble. His first goal that day came just 12 seconds into the match — the fastest goal ever scored in an FA Cup final.

Thinking back to that amazing day, Gundogan smiled:

“I enjoyed it very much!” he said.
“It was a great day — not just playing at Wembley and lifting the FA Cup, but also beating United in a derby and scoring two goals. It’s a memory I’ll never forget.”

Now, Gundogan is focused on making more memories — and helping City move one step closer to another FA Cup trophy.