IIkay Gundogan has returned to Manchester City this summer after agreeing a deal with the club.
Gundogan exited Barcelona for free this summer, having spent just a season at the club after joining them from the Cityzens in the summer of 2023.
IIkay Gundogan has signed a one-year deal with Manchester City, which will run until the summer of 2025.
Confirming the arrival of Gundogan to the Club, the Cityzens put out a statement on their website which read:
“Manchester City have completed a deal to re-sign Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona on a one-year deal, subject to international clearance.”
Pep Guardiola’s side also made known the return of Gundogan via a colourful video shared on their social media accounts.
Gundogan appeared emotional in the video put out by Manchester City, as he indicated how happy he is to be returning to the club.
Speaking after joining the club, the 33-year-old said: “My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch.
“I grew as a person and a player, developed a special relationship with the City fans and enjoyed amazing success. It was an exceptional period in my life.
“To have the opportunity to return here means so much.
Additionally, he indicated his readiness to work under Guardiola and shared how happy he is to play and train alongside other “world class” footballers at Manchester City.
Gundogan said: “Everyone knows the respect I have for Pep – he is the best manager in the world and working with him every day makes you a better player.
“You feel constantly challenged, which for any professional is exactly what you want. I cannot wait to work with him again.
“And what can I say about my teammates here at City…they are world class footballers. I am genuinely delighted to have the chance to train and play alongside them.
“Honestly, I cannot wait to wear the City shirt again.”
Pep Guardiola Played A Crucial Role In Manchester City Signing IIkay Gundogan
Reports indicate that Pep Guardiola played a key role in Gundogan opting to rejoin the Manchester-based club.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claims that as soon as Barcelona were willing to let IIkay Gundogan leave the club on a free transfer, Guardiola got into the picture and began discussing with the German midfielder.
Despite eye-catching proposals for the former German international especially from Qatar, he has chosen to return to the Etihad club until 2025. The one-year deal also includes an option for a further year.
Meanwhile, Gundogan’s contract at Barcelona was to expire in 2026, having penned a 2-year contract extension in May 2024.
IIkay Gundogan accentuated quality during his spell at Barcelona, in what was an underwhelming season for the Catalan giants.
Gundogan made 51 appearances for the Spanish side during the 2023/24 season, scoring 5 goals and providing 14 assists in all competitions.
It appears Barcelona were ready to keep him, but he wasn’t keen on remaining at the club beyond this summer.
IIkay Gundogan had a successful first stint at Manchester City, winning several trophies, including; 1 UEFA Champions League, 5 Premier League titles, 2 FA Cups, and 4 English Football League Cups.
He made 304 appearances for the English giants, scoring 60 goals and providing 38 assists across all competitions.
