German international Ilkay Gündogan has rejoined his former club, Manchester City, just a year and two months after he signed with the Catalan side.
Gundogan’s contract with Barcelona was terminated by mutual consent and the German has inked a one-year deal with City, with an option to extend the contract by a further 12 months.
Gündogan was deemed expendable by Barça after they signed Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig, which ultimately led to his departure from the club.
Due to Barcelona’s delicate financial situation, they needed to reduce their wage bill to register Olmo for LaLiga, and Gündogan’s departure provided the necessary financial flexibility.
Reacting to his departure from Barcelona, Gundogan wrote on X expressing gratitude for the opportunity and acknowledging the challenges faced during a tough season. Conveying his hope that his exit could benefit the club financially and wished the team and fans the best for the future.
“Dear culers,
after just one year it’s already time to say goodbye. I came here to face a new, exciting challenge, and I was ready for it. I have given everything to fight for the team and the club the best possible way in a difficult season and I was looking forward to helping my teammates in the new campaign.
Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad.
Nevertheless, it’s been a time with incredible experiences and ups and downs – I always wanted to play at Barça, and I am very grateful for a memory and experience that I will remember for my life. I wish you the best for the season and for the future. The fans deserve to get this big club back to the world’s best.”
Ilkay Gundogan initially moved to Barcelona on a free transfer after spending seven years at City, where he captained the team during their treble-winning 2022-23 season.
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Story by: Gabriel Tecco Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh
