Ilkay Gundogan on road to recovery as new Manchester City signing tweets picture of himself on way to rehabilitation at the Etihad

ILKAY GUNDOGAN just about managed to crack a smile on his way to his latest rehab session.

The £21million Manchester City man is stepping up his recovery - but will miss the start of the the campaign after dislocating his kneecap at Borussia Dortmund - and was keen to keep his social media followers up to date with his progress.

Gundogan arrived in Manchester on crutches and is still believed to be some way off a full recovery after being spotted house-hunting with his parents.

Sporting a brace on his right knee, the 25-year-old eagerly peered through the windows of Leaders estate agents, which specialises in city centre apartments.

Mum and dad accompanied Gundogan as he took in the options on offer, and the midfielder will be hoping his new luxury pad helps with his rehabilitation.

A week ago he posted a picture of himself in the gym and without crutches.

As reported exclusively by SunSport, Gundogan was given a guided tour of City’s football academy a fortnight ago despite having to hobble around the complex.

The player has also revealed he hopes to bounce back from injury by late August, explaining: “I hope to be fit by the end of August or first week of September.

“You can’t be absolutely sure and we gauge it week-by-week but that’s my target and if everything goes to plan it will be August.

“I may miss a couple of matches but that’s fine because I want to be ready for when I play my first game.”

But Gundogan is relishing working with Pep Guardiola, admitting he looks up to one of his new boss’ favourite players – Barcelona and Spain legend Xavi.

Gundogan added: “When I was young I loved the football of Barca, especially Xavi and Iniesta in midfield. Xavi is in Qatar now and close to retiring but I love the way he played. Some say I’m similar to him.

“I hope in the next years I will be as successful as him and win a lot of titles with Manchester City.”