In a surprising move during the summer transfer window, Ilkay Gundogan has rejoined Manchester City after his contract with Barcelona was terminated by mutual agreement. The seasoned midfielder has signed a one-year contract with the Premier League champions, with an option to extend for an additional 12 months.
Gundogan is no stranger to Manchester City, having spent seven successful seasons with the club from 2016 to 2023. During his time at City, he played a pivotal role in the team’s dominance, helping them secure five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and a coveted UEFA Champions League title, among other honors. His return marks a significant moment for both the player and the club.
After leaving City in 2023, Gundogan joined Barcelona as a free agent, where he continued to demonstrate his skill on the pitch. During his short stint with the La Liga giants, he scored five goals and provided 14 assists, further solidifying his reputation as a top-class midfielder. However, his time in Spain was cut short, leading to his return to the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed his surprise and delight at Gundogan’s return. “Most of the time all the managers say in the transfer window anything can happen, so this is the real proof,” Guardiola said during a press conference. “It was a surprise, unexpected. We know him quite well; the staff and players. We know the quality he plays at last year at Barcelona. High, high level. We didn’t have any doubts when the possibility was open and we’re delighted he is back.”
Gundogan’s return to City is seen as a strategic move for the club, especially following the departure of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid. Alvarez’s transfer brought in 75 million euros for City, which was partially reinvested in acquiring Savinho from Troyes for 25 million euros. Gundogan’s signing marks the club’s second acquisition this summer, reinforcing their squad as they aim to defend their Premier League title.
Guardiola emphasized that Gundogan’s return is not about nostalgia but about continuing to perform at the highest level. “The important thing is he wants to come back,” Guardiola stated. “I got the message from [sporting director] Txiki [Begiristain] that Ilkay wants to talk to you and call you. He called me and asked about the situation. I said yes and now we are here and he has to deliver a good season. The feeling is that he doesn’t come to retire or to remember good memories. We have time to do that in the future. Now it is time to put your shoes on and do your best.”
Manchester City kicked off their 2024-25 Premier League campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on August 18. With Gundogan back in the fold, City fans will be eager to see how his experience and quality will contribute to the team’s success this season. Up next, City will host Ipswich Town at the Etihad Stadium, where Gundogan could make his much-anticipated return to the pitch.
