Manchester City Captain, Ilkay Gundogan Joins Barcelona On Free Transfer

The captain of Manchester City, Ilkay Gundogan has joined Barcelona after his contract with the English club expired.

Ilkay Gundogan left Manchester City after their remarkable season, where they triumphed in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in just one month.

Having spent seven successful years at the Etihad Stadium since his move from Borussia Dortmund in 2016, Gundogan had expressed his desire to extend his stay under the guidance of manager Pep Guardiola.

Negotiations between Gundogan and Manchester City regarding a new contract were underway ahead of his contract expiration, but he was offered a one-year deal with an option for an additional 12 months.

As a result, the 32-year-old midfielder decided to sign a two-year contract with Barcelona, which also includes a 12-month option. His release clause has been set at €400 million.

Gundogan conveyed his gratitude to Manchester City, expressing his appreciation for his time with the club, mentioning the unforgettable moments and the honor of captaining the team during their season.

He also thanked Man City Coach, Pep Guardiola for the invaluable experience of playing under him, as well as his past and present teammates for their contributions.

“For me, it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years.Manchester has been my home and I have felt part of a very special family at City,” 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.”

Man City director of football, Txiki Begiristain paid tribute to the “inspirational” Gundogan after the midfielder’s long-expected free transfer to Barcelona was confirmed.

He commended Gundogan’s immense contribution to the club and praised his intelligence, leadership, and dedication both on and off the field. Begiristain acknowledged Gundogan’s role in the recent successes and wished him well for his future endeavors.

“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.

“He 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.

“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,” said Begiristain.

Meanwhile, Manchester City is close to securing their first summer signing as they have agreed reached an agreement to sign Chelsea midfielder, Mateo Kovacic, for £30 million.