Midfielder, Ilkay Gundogan has left Manchester City for Barcelona on a free transfer.
The move brings Gundogan’s seven-year stay at City to an end, during which he scored 60 goals and created 40 assists in 304 appearances, whilst also serving as the club captain last season which saw Pep Guardiola’s Cityzens achieve a historic treble.
Gundogan will leave City having been part of 14 title successes, including;
- 5 x Premier League
- 4 x League Cup
- 2 x FA Cup
- 2 x Community Shield
- 1 x UEFA Champions League
“For me it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years,” reflected Gundogan – whose last two goals for the club came in last season’s FA Cup Final triumph against Manchester United.
Gundogan proceeded to describe City as having “been my home” for the last seven years with “very special family at City.”
The 32 year-old German also paid tribute to those who have helped him develop his game, as he said: “I have been lucky to have experienced so many unforgettable moments in my time here and to have been captain for this extra special season has been the greatest experience of my career.”
“First, I would like to thank Pep. To have been able to play under and learn from him for so long has been something I will never forget.
“I would also like to thank all my team-mates – past and present – who have all played such a special part in making my time here so amazing.
“Finally, I would like to thank the incredible City fans. They have supported me from the moment I arrived, and I owe them all so much for their support.”
“This club made me realise 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.”
City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain meanwhile described Gundogan as “a wonderful servant for Manchester City,” who leaves “on a very special high having captained us to a historic Treble,” following City’s treble success.
Begiristain also added that Gundogan “has played a huge part in the successes we have enjoyed in recent seasons and Ilkay’s intelligence, leadership and commitment to the Club – both on and off the field – has been an inspiration to everyone.”
Further affirming Gundogan’s impact at City, Begiristain concluded: “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.
“And he leaves us knowing that he will always be welcomed at this football club.”
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