German midfielder, Ilkay Gundogan has re-joined Manchester City on a free transfer from Barcelona.
Gundogan left Man City for Barcelona in late June 2023 upon expiration of his contract, but complicated finances at the Catalonian club led him to decide to leave after just one season – having scored five goals in 51 appearances.
Despite interest across Europe and Saudi Arabia, Gundogan decided to return to Man City on an one-year contract until June 2025, with an option to extend for a further year.
“My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch,” commented Gundogan on his return.
“I grew as a person and a player, developed a special relationship with the City fans and enjoyed amazing success. It was an exceptional period in my life.
“To have the opportunity to return here means so much.”
Gundogan also acknowledged his manager – Pep Guardiola and City teammates for their role in his experience at the club and wanting to return.
“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. You feel constantly challenged, which for any professional is exactly what you want. I cannot wait to work with him again.
“And what can I say about my teammates here at City…they are world class footballers. I am genuinely delighted to have the chance to train and play alongside them.
“Honestly, I cannot wait to wear the City shirt again.”
City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain added that the German midfielder is “exceptional” and can’t wait to see him back in action.
“Ilkay is one of the finest professionals I have ever worked with. His dedication to football and his approach to every single training session is something special.
“He is also an exceptional midfielder. His reading of the game, his football intelligence, his technical quality and his leadership make him an excellent addition to our squad.
“To be able to bring him back here is fantastic news for everyone. He will help us in our main objective, which is to win trophies, but he will also be an inspiration to so many.”
Gundogan began his career at VfL Bochum where he scored one goal in two appearances for their reserve team, before he went on to deliver eight goals in 53 appearances for FC Numberg.
May 2011 saw Gundogan switch to Borussia Dortmund where he delivered 15 goals in 157 appearances, during which they won 2011-12 Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles along with 2013 DFB Supercup.
Summer 2016 saw Gundogan move to City and achieve his most successful period of his career, with five Premier League titles, four League Cups, two FA Cups and Community Shields plus 2022-23 UEFA Champions League.
Gundogan represented Germany internationally and achieved 19 goals in 82 senior caps since his debut in October 2011, although he has recently announced his international retirement.