Ilkay Gundogan returned to his former club Manchester City, after spending a year at Barcelona, on Friday on a one-year deal with an option to extend a season further as Pep Guardiola’s men go in search of a historic fifth Premier League title on the bounce.
The midfielder plied his trade for the blue side of Manchester between 2016 and 2023, during a dominant period in which the club claimed five Premier League titles.
The German shared a highlight reel with the caption, “I’m Back” on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, to confirm his return to the side which he helped to multiple PL crowns, including a famous treble.
Barcelona also shared a note of gratitude to Barcelona following his rather quick departure, after having played just a single season in Spain.
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… pic.twitter.com/n9gAhbmpmz— Ilkay Gündogan (@IlkayGuendogan) August 23, 2024
“Dear culers, after just one year it’s already time to say goodbye,” he began.
“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,” the update read.
“Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad,” the 33-year-old added.
“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,” he concluded.
