Ilkay Gundogan returns to Manchester City after leaving Barcelona
Turkish-origin German footballer Ilkay Gundogan signs a contract with Mancherter City, Manchester, UK, August 23, 2024 (Man City)
Ilkay Gundogan, a German midfielder, has returned to his former club Manchester City after leaving Barcelona.
He has signed a one-year contract with an additional one-year option. Pep Guardiola recruited Gundogan to City in 2016, and he previously played for the club for seven seasons before relocating to Barcelona.
Gundogan has signed a one-year contract with an option for an additional year. Pep Guardiola brought him to City in 2016. He played for the club for seven seasons before moving to Barcelona.
He amassed 304 appearances, tallied 60 goals, and won 14 trophies during his tenure at City. He is expected to make a significant contribution in both his capacity as an athlete and as a coach in his new position.
Gundogan’s name was also linked with Fenerbahce and Galatasaray during this transfer window.
Ilkay Gundogan’s departure from Barcelona
Gundogan was compelled to leave Barcelona despite a prosperous season as a result of financial difficulties.
Barcelona’s efforts to establish a budget for Dani Olmo’s transfer, coupled with his high salary, hastened the decision to release him. This action will assist Barcelona in complying with the expenditure restrictions of La Liga.
Last season, Gundogan participated in 51 matches for Barcelona, contributing five goals and 14 assists.
Future plans regarding Manchester’s Turkish star Ilkay Gundogan
Gundogan rejected proposals from Saudi Arabia and Qatar in favor of Manchester City.
Guardiola regards Gundogan as a critical figure who will offer tactical insights and provide leadership on the field. Gundogan is expected to assume an assistant coach position next season if Guardiola remains.
Gundogan, who has faced objections to his captaincy due to his Turkish heritage announced his departure from the German national football team on Aug. 20. The 33-year-old, who plays for Barcelona and has been rumored to be leaving the team, revealed his decision to retire from international football via Instagram.
The 33-year-old Gundogan’s current market value is 15 million euros.
