Gündoğan pleased to support Barcelona financially as he completes his return to Manchester City

Ilkay Gündoğan Expresses Gratitude as He Returns to Manchester City

Ilkay Gündoğan has expressed mixed emotions as he finalizes his return to Manchester City, reflecting on his one-year stint with Barcelona and the financial relief his departure provides for the Catalan club. The midfielder’s move back to City was confirmed on Friday, following a productive but challenging season in La Liga.

Gündoğan joined Barcelona last year after seven successful seasons at Manchester City, where he won 14 major trophies, including the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup Treble in 2022-23. Despite his pivotal role in Barcelona, where he made 51 appearances, scored five goals, and provided 14 assists, the club faced financial constraints. His departure was partly driven by the need to accommodate Dani Olmo, who was signed for €60 million, a transfer made possible by clearing space in the wage bill.

In his farewell message on X (formerly Twitter), Gündoğan acknowledged the financial aspect of his exit, stating, “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. If my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad.”

Gündoğan praised his time at Barcelona, noting the memorable experiences and the challenges he faced. “It’s been a time with incredible experiences and ups and downs,” he wrote. “I always wanted to play at Barca, and I am very grateful for the memory and experience.”

As Gündoğan returns to Manchester City, he will look to build on his previous successes and contribute to the club’s continued pursuit of excellence on both domestic and European fronts.