Gundogan overjoyed with Champions League qualification | OneFootball

Ilkay Gundogan expressed his elation after City's 2-0 Premier League victory over Fulham secured our ticket to next season's Champions League.

The midfielder set us on our way with his first goal of the league season, spectacularly finishing with an overhead kick from five yards after Matheus Nunes' effort was deflected into his path.

Erling Haaland coolly slotted in our second with just under 20 minutes left to play from the penalty spot after Gundogan was fouled inside the box.

GALLERY: GUNDOGAN STARS IN FINAL DAY VICTORY AT FULHAM!

The victory secured third place and a spot in Europe's elite competition for a 15th season in succession.

"Yeah obviously [it is] very important, coming here to a tough ground against a really good opponent," said Gundogan after the game. "First of all to play the way we have played and to create that many chances, and then obviously to win and secure the Champions League spot was very important. Today we are very happy with that.

"It took me some time this season to score! It was just intuition, arriving in the box at the second post, trying to be there where you might think the ball could drop.

"When I saw the ball going over my head I had to adapt my run and adjust, and just try to go for it, when I landed and turned around, I didn’t even know if the ball was in the net or not. Then I saw my teammates coming to me then I was sure it was a goal. I’m happy with myself to score.

"Especially towards the end of the season, it’s about staying calm and not overthinking, especially in these crucial games. They are like finals, it feels like a knockout game. It’s win or die if you’d like to say.

"I think it’s just what I have been doing in the last two weeks, it’s the reward for it and now a little break and then the Club World Cup."

The victory at Craven Cottage also marked the final appearance in sky blue for Kevin De Bruyne after an incredibly successful 10-year spell at the Club.

The City legend was serenaded by the away fans after the game and Gundogan had nothing but praise for De Bruyne.

"Exceptional. I feel very lucky, and I’m very grateful that I had the opportunity to share the pitch and dressing room with him," he declared.

"He’s one of the most special players that I have played with and that the Premier League has probably ever seen.

"The appreciation from the fans at the Etihad and again here today is fully deserved. He will be missed.

"We wish him in his football career and personal life the best, and we will definitely stay in touch."