- Barcelona Bids Farewell: Ilkay Gündoğan Leaves for Man City After One Year
Following his departure from the national squad, Ilkay Gündogan makes his next significant move: After a mere year, the 33-year-old decides to depart from FC Barcelona and rejoin Manchester City. He has signed a contract for the current season with the team managed by Pep Guardiola, with whom he amassed a total of 14 titles before. "It means a lot to me to have this opportunity," he stated in a statement issued by the English champions.
"Guardiola is the greatest coach around"
Reports suggest that Guardiola played a key role in persuading his former protege and midfield tactician to return. It is said that they met at a restaurant in Manchester on Wednesday evening to go over the specifics. Guardiola had also attempted to retain Gündogan the previous year, but he opted for new challenges. Now they are back together. "Everyone knows the admiration I have for Guardiola. He is the best coach in the world, and working with him everyday makes you a better player," said Ilkay Gündogan.
Previously, the Catalans managed by former national team coach Hansi Flick had advised Gündogan to leave during this transfer window. Gündogan's agent and uncle Ilhan had revealed on August 8 that although several clubs showed interest, his nephew wished to stay. Flick recently mentioned a conversation with Gündogan but did not provide details.
Guardiola and Gündogan: The successful duo reunited
Manchester with Guardiola and Gündogan: This was a remarkable success story for seven years. In 2016, the Spanish star coach wished to acquire the then Borussia Dortmund star, and he succeeded. In his last season with Manchester City so far, 2022/2023, Ilkay Gündogan served as the team's captain and led them to the treble of Champions League, league, and cup. In total, he won the English league title five times under Guardiola.
"I am married, but I adore Gündogan," Guardiola once joked. In a stern interview in June, the Spaniard praised Gündogan's qualities: "Ilkay didn't speak much, but when he did, everyone listened, including me as a manager. He is a very intelligent player, one of the most intelligent I've ever trained. He was a key to our success." Now there could be more to come.
The English champions, Manchester City, welcome back Ilkay Gündogan, marking a reunion with their successful manager, Pep Guardiola. During a past season, Gündogan captained Manchester City to achieve the treble of Champions League, league, and cup.
