İlkay Gündoğan has returned to Manchester City on a free transfer after a brief spell with Barcelona. The 33-year-old midfielder, who captained City during a golden era from 2016 to 2023, has signed a 1+1 contract, keeping him at the Etihad Stadium until June 2025 with the option for an additional season. Gündoğa will don the No. 19 shirt upon his return.
Pep Guardiola, the mastermind behind Manchester City’s recent dominance, played a pivotal role in bringing Gündoğan back to the club. The manager’s influence was crucial in convincing the former captain to return to the Premier League champions, further strengthening a squad already brimming with talent.
Gündoğan’s first stint at City was nothing short of remarkable. The German international made 304 appearances, scoring vital goals and playing a key role in the club’s success, including winning 14 major trophies. His leadership on and off the pitch was instrumental in shaping City’s identity as one of the most formidable teams in Europe.
In his official statement, Gündoğan expressed his deep affection for Manchester City and his excitement about rejoining the club. “My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch,” he said. “To have the opportunity to return here means so much. Everyone knows the respect I have for Pep – he is the best manager in the world.”
The transfer marks the end of Gündoğan’s brief tenure at Barcelona, where he spent a challenging season following his move from Manchester City. In an emotional farewell message to Barça fans, Gündoğan reflected on his time at the Catalan club:
“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 in the best possible way during 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.”
He continued, “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. Visca el Barça!”
Gündoğan’s return to Manchester City is a significant boost for Guardiola’s side, adding depth and experience to a midfield already filled with world-class talent. His familiarity with the club’s philosophy and his proven track record in the Premier League make him a valuable asset as City aim to defend their domestic and European titles.
The transfer has been officially confirmed, and Manchester City fans will eagerly anticipate seeing their former captain back in action, as he looks to continue his legacy at the club where he made his name as one of the world’s top midfielders.
