In mid-May 2023, Ilkay Gundogan lifted the coveted Champions League trophy as captain of Manchester City. It was like touching the sky with his hands. With that formidable team led by Pep Guardiola, the German midfielder achieved the incredible treble (Premier, FA Cup, and Champions League). However, he made a crucial decision at that moment: not to renew his contract and move to Barcelona. Seduced by Xavi, he wanted to fulfill his long-standing dream of wearing the Barsa jersey, hoping to continue winning titles.
One year later, the reality was very different for Gundo. While City achieved their fourth consecutive Premier League title (a historic record), he couldn’t lift any trophy with the Catalan team. After a forgettable season collectively, Xavi stepped down as coach, and German Hansi Flick arrived, making the future look discouraging for the midfielder: the new coach does not see him as an undisputed starter, leading the player to decide to negotiate his exit.
Flick wants a very dynamic team that recovers and attacks quickly, without too many passing sequences. In those quick transitions and high pressing that he seeks to implement, Gundogan finds himself at a disadvantage. Despite being one of the best players for Barcelona last season (14 assists and 5 goals in 51 matches), his characteristics do not fit well into the new playing model, especially with the arrival of Dani Olmo. Moreover, the management would reduce their high budget by letting the German go, as Gundogan is one of the highest-paid contracts in the squad.
Flick does not guarantee Gundogan a starting position for this season.Reunion with Pep and Co.
At almost 34 years old (he turns 34 on October 24), Gundogan began to analyze his future. While a lucrative offer from a Saudi Arabian club appeared, and there were parallel reports of interest from Turkey’s Galatasaray (the player’s parents are Turkish), the destination that attracts him the most is Manchester City. There, he played 304 matches, scored 60 goals, provided 34 assists, and won 14 titles over seven seasons. Moreover, he was captain and one of the most beloved players by the fans.
In recent days, Gundogan himself contacted Guardiola by phone to see if the Catalan coach had plans for him. The response was positive. For Pep, the German has been one of his key players during his time at the English club. He knows Gundogan is like a coach on the field due to his tactical intelligence and that he can cover various positions: as a central midfielder, in a double pivot, on the right or left side, and even further up the pitch.
With the Barcelona management’s approval not to hinder his exit and Guardiola’s acceptance, Gundogan’s representative is in Manchester to negotiate his new contract with his former club. Initially, he would sign for two seasons, until mid-2026. Meanwhile, the player has officially communicated that he is retiring from the German national team. If he signs his return to City, he will be 100% available for Guardiola. Another point in his favor.
