By Chibuzo Ohuakanwa
In a significant move during the summer transfer window, Manchester City has re-signed German midfielder Ilkay Gündogan from Barcelona on a one-year contract. Gündogan, who originally departed City for Barcelona in 2023, returns to the Etihad Stadium where he previously enjoyed a highly successful seven-year stint.
During his first spell at Manchester City, Gündogan was instrumental in the club’s success, securing 12 major trophies, including five Premier League titles and the Champions League. The 33-year-old midfielder expressed his delight at returning to a club where he experienced tremendous personal and professional growth.
“My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch,” Gündogan said upon 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. Everyone knows my respect for Pep – he is the best manager in the world. 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.”
ALSO READ: Arsenal join race for Lookman, offer €50m, Kiwior to Atalanta
Gündogan left Manchester City in 2023 after captaining the team to a historic treble, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. He joined Barcelona on a free transfer, quickly becoming a key player for the Catalan club. However, financial constraints at Barcelona have reportedly led to his early departure, as the club needed to offload a high earner to register new signing Dani Olmo.
Gündogan’s return to Manchester City comes as the club’s second major signing of the summer, following the acquisition of Brazilian winger Savinho. His experience and versatility will be a valuable asset for manager Pep Guardiola, who was reluctant to see the midfielder leave last year. Gündogan’s arrival will help fill the gap left by the departure of forward Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid, providing Guardiola with additional options as City looks to defend their titles in the upcoming season.
