Barcelona bound Gundogan bids farewell to Manchester City

Ilkay Gundogan is set to leave Manchester City and commence a new chapter of his career with Barcelona, concluding a remarkable seven-year tenure at the Etihad.

Gundogan joins the Spanish club on a free transfer signing a two-year deal, with the option to extend for another year. 

During his time at Manchester City, Gundogan made an impressive 304 appearances across all competitions, netting 60 goals and playing a central role in the most prosperous period in the club's history.

Having joined City from Borussia Dortmund in July 2016, Gundogan held the honor of being Pep Guardiola’s first recruit following the Catalan's appointment as City manager.

His on-field vision, technique, and scoring prowess were instrumental in the team's success, earning him a coveted position in Guardiola's squad.

In the 2022/23 campaign, Gundogan served as captain, leading the team to Champions League glory against Inter earlier this month in Istanbul.

This victory crowned City as the champions of Europe for the first time, marking a historic Treble of Premier League, FA Cup, and European Cup under Gundogan's leadership.

Over the course of his tenure, Gundogan's accomplishments with City include five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, two Community Shields, and the Champions League.

He has left an indelible mark with numerous standout moments, including his dramatic late brace that sealed the Premier League title in the final game of the 2021/22 season against Aston Villa.

Internationally, the 32-year-old has amassed 67 caps for Germany, participating in both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and at EURO 2012 and EURO 2020.

Reflecting on his journey, Gundogan expressed his gratitude.

“For me, it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years. This club made me realize all my dreams and I will forever be thankful for this opportunity. I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue.”

Txiki Begiristain, Director of Football at Manchester City, lauded Gundogan's major contribution, stating, "Ilkay has been a wonderful servant for Manchester City, and he leaves our club on a very special high having captained us to a historic Treble. Ilkay has truly cemented his place in the history of Manchester City and we all wish him well in the next chapter of his career."