Manchester, August 23, 2024 – In a surprising move, German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has returned to Manchester City, the club he left just over a year ago to join Barcelona.
Gundogan, who won five Premier League titles and the Champions League during his first spell at City between 2016 and 2023, has rejoined the English champions.
Gundogan expressed his delight at the homecoming, stating, “I am incredibly happy. Happy to see the teammates, the staff, people that over seven years I had an amazing time with, a very successful time with. Many ups, and a few downs, but in general, an incredible experience.”
The 33-year-old midfielder had a solid campaign with Barcelona, scoring five goals and providing 14 assists. However, the Catalan giants failed to win any trophies during his sole season at the club. It is reported that Gundogan and Barcelona agreed to rescind his contract, paving the way for his return to the Etihad.
Gundogan’s return comes as a timely boost for Manchester City, who recently saw the departure of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid for a reported fee of up to 95 million euros (£81 million, $104 million).
City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, expressed his delight at Gundogan’s homecoming, saying, “Ilkay is one of the finest professionals I have ever worked with. His dedication to football and his approach to every single training session is something special. To be able to bring him back here is fantastic news for everyone. He will help us in our main objective, which is to win trophies, but he will also be an inspiration to so many.”
Gundogan’s return to Manchester City is a significant move, as the club looks to continue its dominance in the Premier League and challenge for European glory once again. The experienced midfielder will provide valuable depth and leadership to Pep Guardiola’s squad as they aim for a record-extending fifth consecutive league title.
