Ilkay Gundogan Confirms Departure From Barcelona After 1 Year, Rejoins Manchester City

Ilkay Gundogan has confirmed his departure from FC Barcelona after just one year at the club as the German midfielder is set to rejoin Premier League Champions Manchester City.

Ilkay Gundogan's exit comes after disputes with the squad and club's management. The German confirmed that he is leaving due to financial problems at Barcelona as the club is once again again struggling to register new signings. 

Gundogan's final message to Barcelona fans  

Ilkay Gundogan took to X to confirm his departure from the Catalan club. In his statement he confirmed that he wanted to stay at the club but due to their tough financial situation he is forced to leave. 

“Dear culers, after just one year it’s already time to say goodbye. I came here to face a new, exciting challenge, and I was ready for it. I have given everything to fight for the team and the club the best possible way in a difficult season and I was looking forward to helping my teammates in the new campaign. Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad," wrote Ilkay Gundogan on X. 

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Gundogan further thanked the club for an incredible time. "Nevertheless, it’s been a time with incredible experiences and ups and downs - I always wanted to play at Barça, and I am very grateful for a memory and experience that I will remember for my life. I wish you the best for the season and for the future. The fans deserve to get this big club back to the world’s best. Visca el Barça! Best wishes, Ilkay,” said Ilkay Gundogan in a statement on X. 

Ilkay Gundogan joined Barcelona a free transfer back in Summer 2023 after his contract with Manchester City expired. Gundogan came into Barca expected to make a big impact and bring them to winning ways, however, over the course of the season the German grew frustrated with the club's functioning and spoke out openly against the squad's mentality after the defeat to Real Madrid in El Clasico last season. 

Things escalated further when FC Barcelona were knocked out of the Champions League quarterfinals against PSG and Ilkay Gundogan criticised teammate Ronald Araujo. 

Gundogan rejoins Manchester City 

Premier League Champions Manchester City have officially confirmed Ilkay Gundogan's transfer with a special video on social media. 

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Ilkay Gundogan has rejoined Manchester City on a one year contract and has an option to extend for one more season once the deal runs its course in June 2025.