Returning to Manchester City, Ilkay Gündogan re-joined the reigning Premier League champs, signing a year-long contract with a 12-month extension possibility. The aged German midfielder, aged 33, departed City for Barcelona in 2023 after leading the team under the guidance of Pep Guardiola to a treble triumph. Gündogan may be on the pitch for City’s upcoming game against Ipswich Town at Etihad Stadium.
“Having spent seven fruitful years at Manchester City, I cherished every moment, both professionally and personally,” stated Gündogan. “My personal growth as a player and an individual, the bond I created with the City supporters and the successes I experienced here are wonderful memories from an incredible section of my life. I am greatly honoured by the chance to return.”
Gündogan, who clinched 14 prominent trophies such as five Premier League trophies and a Champions League title during his City tenure, takes the return journey from Barcelona despite having two years left on his contract there. Gündogan was informed that Barcelona wouldn’t hinder his departure if he wished to leave.
“Despite spending just a year, it’s time to bid farewell,” Gündogan shared on a social media platform. “Joining here meant accepting a thrilling new challenge, and I was ready to take it on headfirst. I’ve staked everything on battling for our team during a demanding season.
“I am exiting under difficult circumstances. However, if my departure alleviates the club’s financial strain, I can find some consolation.”
Gündogan had 51 appearances in the previous season assisting Barcelona to secure the runner-up spot in La Liga. Discussing his return to City’s side, it seems timely considering they recently lost Argentine Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid and will miss winger Oscar Bobb for several months due to his leg injury from training.
Gündogan was initially drafted into City from Borussia Dortmund in 2016 by Guardiola, marking the first acquisition of his managerial stint.
“The reverence I have for Pep is well-known – in my view, he ranks as the world’s top football manager. Training under his watchful eyes every day improves your skills,” Gündogan paraphrased. “The relentless push he provides is exactly what any professional craves. I eagerly look forward to working with him once again.
“To be honest, I can’t wait to don the City jersey again.”
Gündogan found the back of the net 60 times in 304 outings for Guardiola’s team, including a brace in the victorious City’s FA Cup final match against Manchester United in 2023, where he recorded the fastest goal in the event’s history within 13 seconds. Recently, Gündogan revealed his decision to hang up his boots for international football after representing Germany 82 times, and leading them as the captain in the 2024 Euro tournament.
(c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2024