Despite winning a remarkable treble with Manchester City, creative midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has decided to join Barcelona on a two-year deal.
Gundogan, 32, has been a free agent this summer after failing to extend his contract with Pep Guardiola’s Sky Blues.
Consequently, failing to convince him to stay at the Etihad, only is the German now heading to Barcelona, but Manchester City are set to lose arguably one of their most impactful players.
Playing a massive role in his side’s flurry of trophies last season, Gundogan, who scored 11 goals in 52 games, including two against rivals Manchester United in June’s 2022-23 FA Cup final, was crucial to the team’s silverware haul, which also included lifting their first-ever Champions League after beating Inter Milan 1-0 in the final.
Over the course of his time in Manchester, the former Schalke youth star has been instrumental in how the Cityzens play. Forging a formidable midfield partnership with the likes of Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne, the 32-year-old will prove almost impossible to replace.
Ilkay Gundogan to transfer to Barcelona
Shockingly, despite being a regular in his manager’s midfield, according to Fabrizio Romano, the 32-year-old has agreed to link up with Xavi at the Nou Camp and attempt to turn the Catalan giants back into one of Europe’s most feared outfits.
Ilkay Gündogan to Barcelona, here we go! Final approval arrived on club side to register him as new signing, green light from the player. It’s done deal, signed few minutes ago. 🚨🔵🔴 #FCB
Gündogan has agreed a two year deal valid until June 2025 with option for further year. pic.twitter.com/Gr467hNBms
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 21, 2023
Although Manchester City and their fans will be bitterly disappointed that one of their best players is departing, Barcelona fans will be delighted that Xavi has convinced a player of Gundogan’s caliber to join; the fact the experienced Germany international will arrive in Spain on a free transfer is a huge bonus.
During his seven years at Manchester City, Gundogan, who joined from Borussia Dortmund in a deal worth just $31m, has scored 60 goals and added 40 assists in 304 games in all competitions.
