Manchester City has completed the signing of former captain Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona on an initial one-year deal with the option of a further 12 months.
The German midfielder, who was Pep Guardiola’s first signing at the club in 2016, spent seven years at City before joining Barcelona on a free transfer in 2023.
Gundogan’s return to Manchester City marks a significant reunion, as he previously won 14 trophies and scored 60 goals in 304 appearances during his first spell at the Etihad.
The 33-year-old expressed his excitement to return to Manchester City, citing his respect for manager Pep Guardiola and his desire to work with him again.
“My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch,” said Gundogan. “Everyone knows the respect I have for Pep – he is the best manager in the world and working with him every day makes you a better player. Honestly, I cannot wait to wear the City shirt again.”
Gundogan’s departure from Barcelona comes after the club faced financial issues and needed to register new signing Dani Olmo with La Liga.
Despite an impressive debut campaign in Spain, Barcelona decided to part with Gundogan, who was one of the club’s highest earners. His departure on a free transfer will help Barcelona comply with La Liga spending restrictions.
Gundogan announced his international retirement from the German national team following the country’s Euro 2024 exit in the quarter-finals to Spain.
He has been capped 82 times for Germany and will now focus on his club career with Manchester City.
