Manchester City Re-Sign Ilkay Gundogan From Barcelona

Ilkay Gundogan expressed his joy at returning to what he called the “best club in the world” after re-signing with Manchester City from Barcelona on Friday.

The 33-year-old former German international had an illustrious first stint at City from 2016 to 2023, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League among a total of 12 major trophies.

EKO HOT BLOG gathered that Gundogan left City just over a year ago to join Barcelona. However, reports suggest that after only one season, during which he scored five goals and provided 14 assists, Gundogan and the Catalan club mutually agreed to terminate his contract, allowing him to make his return to the Etihad Stadium. Despite his contributions, Barcelona ended the season without securing any silverware.

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“I am incredibly happy. Happy to see the teammates, the staff, people that over seven years I had an amazing time with, a very successful time with. Many ups, and a few downs, but in general, an incredible experience.

“When you leave this place like I did last year, you spend a year away, and you then start to appreciate the place even more. You realise what you had. You realise how amazing that time was. You realise how big the club is — the best club in the world,” Gundogan said in a City statement.

Gundogan’s return comes at a crucial time for Manchester City, following Julian Alvarez’s transfer to Atletico Madrid for a reported fee of up to €95 million (£81 million, $104 million).

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As Pep Guardiola’s first signing when they both arrived at the club in 2016, Gundogan made a significant impact, scoring 60 goals in 304 appearances. His re-signing adds valuable experience and depth to Guardiola’s squad as they aim for a record-extending fifth consecutive Premier League title.

“Ilkay is one of the finest professionals I have ever worked with. His dedication to football and his approach to every single training session is something special,” said City’s Director of Football Txiki Begiristain.

“To be able to bring him back here is fantastic news for everyone. He will help us in our main objective, which is to win trophies, but he will also be an inspiration to so many,” Begiristain added.

Gundogan is City’s second signing of the transfer window after the arrival of Brazilian winger Savinho.

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