Skip to main content Skip to footer 
Manchester City have secured the return of former captain Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona, signing the German midfielder to an initial one-year contract with the option for an additional year.
Gundogan, who was Pep Guardiola’s first signing at City in 2016, spent seven successful years at the Etihad before joining Barcelona on a free transfer in 2023. During his first spell with City, the 33-year-old won 14 trophies and scored 60 goals in 304 appearances.
“My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch,” said Gundogan. “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.”
Despite a successful debut season at Barcelona, Gundogan’s departure was prompted by the club’s financial challenges. Barcelona struggled to register new signing Dani Olmo and needed to reduce their wage bill to comply with La Liga’s spending regulations.
Gundogan expressed his mixed feelings about leaving Barcelona, stating, “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 reflected on his time at Barcelona, noting he was “grateful” for the experience despite the club’s current difficulties.
Guardiola, who made Gundogan his captain during City’s Treble-winning season in 2023, was surprised by the opportunity to re-sign him. “It was a complete surprise, unexpected,” Guardiola said. “We didn’t have any doubts when the possibility to re-sign him was open, and we’re absolutely delighted that he’s back.”
Gundogan, who has 82 caps for Germany, announced his international retirement after Germany’s quarter-final exit in Euro 2024 to Spain. He is expected to bolster City’s midfield as they look to continue their domestic and European successes.
