- Gündogan returns to his cherished preference - "Outstanding clan in global football"
After enjoying dinner at his Catalan eatery with mentor Pep Guardiola, Ilkay Gundogan's return to his cherished squad, Manchester City, was officially confirmed. "Leaving this place, being away for a year, makes you appreciate it more. You realize what you had, how fantastic that period was. You understand the magnitude of the club - the best club in the world," shared Gundogan, who surprise-returned to the English football titans following a year with FC Barcelona.
Gundogan and City - an extraordinary success saga spanned seven years. The 33-year-old amassed 14 titles while donning the Sky Blues' kit, even ascending to the position of team captain and indispensable ally of star coach Guardiola, who advocated for his return. "Everyone knows the respect I have for Pep. He's the best coach in the world, and working with him daily elevates your game. I'm thrilled to work with him again," said Gundogan.
Gundogan makes another future move
With this action, the midfielder, who signed a deal extending until the end of the season with an option for another year, has made another decisive move regarding his City future in a short span. He recently announced his retirement from the German national team after 82 international appearances.
Reports hint that Gundogan could be rejoining Manchester free of charge, despite having a Barcelona contract that lasts until 2026. He never found joy at the Catalan club, with Gundogan himself describing his time there as a "challenging period." He further expressed gratitude towards the club financially, writing on X about Barça fans: "If my departure assists the club, it lessens my sorrow."
Apparently, the Catalans, under the tutelage of ex-Germany manager Hansi Flick since this season, had advised Gundogan to part ways during this transfer window. Gundogan's agent and uncle Ilhan had stated on August 8 that despite interest from other clubs, his nephew wished to stay. Flick mentioned a conversation with Gundogan but withheld details.
The influence of Olmo in the transfer
The background appears to involve the acquisition of Spanish football European champion Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig. Financially strapped Catalans sought to alleviate Gundogan's million-dollar salary due to Olmo's restrictions in the Spanish league, as he couldn't play yet.
City is ready to pay a million dollars for Gundogan's services. The transfer had been hinting at for the past few days. On Wednesday evening, there was a breakthrough. Gundogan met with Guardiola at restaurant Tast, where the coach has co-ownership. City CEO Ferran Soriano attended as well. Following the meeting, Gundogan began signing autographs. It's fitting that the midfield star is still living in the city center apartment.
Guardiola admires Gundogan
In 2016, Guardiola managed to acquire the then BVB star and did not regret it. In his final City season 2022/2023, Gundogan acted as the captain of the Cityzens and led them to the triple of Champions League, league, and cup. In total, he won the English league title five times under Guardiola.
"I am married, but I adore Gundogan," Guardiola once quipped. In a "Stern" interview in June, he lauded the talents of the native Gelsenkirchen resident: "Ilkay didn't speak much, but when he did, everyone listened, even me as a manager. He is a very intelligent player, one of the most intelligent I've ever trained. He was instrumental to our success." More accolades are on the horizon.
Gundogan's nostalgic return to Manchester City involves a potential move back from FC Barcelona, a club he found challenging during his tenure. Gundogan, who spent seven successful years at Manchester City, expressing his admiration for coach Pep Guardiola, might be rejoining the Sky Blues, this time potentially without a transfer fee.
With his agent stating his desire to stay at Barcelona earlier this August, Gundogan's potential move back to Manchester City could be influenced by the arrival of Dani Olmo and Barcelona's financial situation, as well as Guardiola's admiration and appreciation for Gundogan's abilities and intelligence on the field.
