Manchester City is on the verge of finalizing a deal to bring back Ilkay Gündogan to the club, according to a reliable source. Gündogan, who spent a successful seven seasons at City before moving to Barcelona last year, is set to make a return to the Etihad Stadium after just one season at the Spanish club. The announcement of his signing is expected to be made before the weekend after he travels to Manchester on Wednesday.
Gündogan, who still had two years left on his contract at Barcelona, is set to sign a one-year deal with the option of extending it for another year. The 33-year-old midfielder will not cost City any transfer fee as his departure from Barcelona is by mutual agreement. Despite interest from Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Gündogan has opted to rejoin City, having close ties with head coach Pep Guardiola.
During his first spell at Manchester City from 2016 to 2023, Gündogan made over 300 appearances for the club, winning a total of 12 major trophies including five Premier League titles and one Champions League. His departure last summer on a free transfer left a void in the squad that the club is now looking to fill with his return. Despite making 51 appearances for Barcelona last season, City have decided to bring him back to alleviate financial pressures following the acquisition of Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig.
Gündogan recently announced his retirement from the Germany national team, signaling a new chapter in his career at the club level. His experience and leadership qualities are expected to be valuable assets to Manchester City as they aim to compete for silverware in the upcoming season. The close relationship between Gündogan and Guardiola off the field is also seen as a positive factor in his return to the English club.
Manchester City’s decision to re-sign Ilkay Gündogan reflects their ambition to strengthen the squad and maintain their competitive edge in domestic and European competitions. The midfielder’s proven track record at the club, combined with his personal rapport with Guardiola, makes him a valuable addition to the team as they embark on a new season filled with high expectations. City fans will undoubtedly be eager to see Gündogan back in action, reunited with familiar faces and ready to make an impact on the pitch once again.
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