Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is back at Manchester City. After a season playing for Barcelona, the player returns to the Citizens without transfer costs.
According to the European press, the midfielder’s contract with City is valid until June 2025, and can be renewed for another year.
In his first words in his second spell at the club, Gundogan opened his heart to the English club and spoke about the happiness of his first spell.
“My seven years at Manchester City have been a period of pure satisfaction for me, both on and off the pitch,” Gundogan began.
“I’ve grown as a person and a player, developed a special relationship with City fans and enjoyed incredible success. It was an exceptional period in my life. Having the opportunity to return here means a lot,” he continued.
Gundogan also highlighted the relationship with Guardiola and the chance to work with the coach again.
“Everyone knows the respect I have for Pep – he’s the best manager in the world and working with him every day makes you a better player. You feel constantly challenged, which for any professional is exactly what you want. I can’t wait to work with him again,” he said.
The first signing of the Guardiola era at City, Ilkay Gundogan played seven seasons in the team. During his first spell at the club, the German won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, two Community Shields and one Champions League, making 304 appearances and scoring 60 goals.
Despite having two more years left on his contract with Barcelona, The team released him free of charge to be able to lighten the payroll. Before being announced by City, Gundogan said goodbye to Barça.
“I came here to take on an exciting new challenge and I was ready for it. I gave everything to fight for the team and the club in the best possible way in a difficult season and I was eager to help my teammates in the new campaign. Now I’m leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, I’m a little less sad. I wish the best for the season and for the future. The fans deserve to take this great club back to the best in the world,” he said.
Check out Gundogan’s photo gallery below:
