New Delhi: The reigning Premier League champions Manchester City have agreed to re-sign Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona on a free transfer. The 33-year-old German midfielder recently announced his international retirement following his country’s quarter-final exit at Euro 2024, where they were defeated by Spain.
Gundogan was Pep Guardiola’s first signing at the club in 2016. He spent seven years at City before making a free transfer to Barcelona last year. During his time with City, he captained the team to a historic Triple, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League.
In his first interview since rejoining Manchester City, Gundogan expressed his excitement about returning, saying, “My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch.” While talking about the same, he added his views about Pep Guardiola “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.” City even took to their social media handles to welcome their star back home.
What you’ve all been waiting for…
Welcome back to City, @IlkayGuendogan 🩵 pic.twitter.com/8VutEkQNRU
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 23, 2024
Gundogen won 14 trophies in his first spell with Manchester City, scoring 60 goals in 304 appearances. Despite an impressive debut campaign in Spain, with five goals and 14 assists in 51 appearances, Blaugrana still decided to part ways with Gundogen as they struggled to register new signing Dani Olmo amid the club’s financial crises.
Ilkay Gundogan was one of the team’s best earners, and his free transfer will enable the team to meet La Liga spending caps. Following the departure Gundogun took to instagram and said,”I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad.” He also expressed gratitude for his time at Camp Nou and looks forward to contributing to Manchester City’s success in the new season.
Ilkay Gundogan returns to Manchester City from Barcelona after a stellar stint in Spain. Discover his excitement and what this means for both clubs. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
