‘We Continue Where We Stopped...’: Gundogan Opens Up in First Interview Since Manchester City Return

After just one year with FC Barcelona, Ilkay Gundogan has announced that he is leaving from the Spanish club; the German midfielder is expected to return to Premier League Champions Manchester City. Gundogan leaves after conflicts with the team and administration of the club. The German acknowledged that he is leaving Barcelona because of financial difficulties as the team is once again having trouble registering fresh acquisitions. 

Also Read: Ilkay Gundogan Confirms Departure From Barcelona After 1 Year

Gundogan issues his first interview after Manchester City return

Ilkay Gundogan is back at Manchester City for a sequel few could have expected. A year after leaving for Barcelona, the former Germany midfielder completed his return to City on Friday on a free transfer and a season-long deal.

The 33-year-old Gundogan, who has the option of a further season at City, was the captain when Pep Guardiola’s team captured the Premier League- FA Cup -Champions League treble in the 2022-23 campaign.

That confirmed his place in the growing pantheon of City greats, having already been in the conversation most notably after scoring two late goals against Aston Villa on the final day of the 2021-22 Premier League season to seal a 3-2 win that clinched the title. He was at City for seven years after joining in 2016 as Guardiola’s first signing, and was so often his manager’s go-to player with big performances and significant goals — as well as his neighbor.

“To have the opportunity to return here means so much,” Gundogan said. “Everyone knows the respect I have for Pep — he is the best manager in the world and working with him every day makes you a better player. You feel constantly challenged, which for any professional is exactly what you want. I cannot wait to work with him again.

“And what can I say about my teammates here at City ... they are world-class footballers. I am genuinely delighted to have the chance to train and play alongside them. Honestly, I cannot wait to wear the City shirt again.”

Bringing in Gundogan is a late call by City in this transfer window. He was one of Xavi Hernández’s favorite players during the coach’s sole season with the Catalan club but Barcelona’s delicate economic situation appears to have forced the new coach, Hansi Flick of Germany, to part ways with Gundogan.

(With AP inputs)