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Barcelona complete signing of Man City captain Ilkay Gundogan.
Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan has officially signed a two-year deal with Barcelona.
The 32-year-old’s contract at Camp Nou includes a 12-month extension option, ending his wildly successful seven-year tenure at the Etihad Stadium.
𝑩𝑹𝑬𝑨𝑲𝑰𝑵𝑮 𝑵𝑬𝑾𝑺 İlkay Gündoğan joins FC Barcelona!
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 26, 2023
Gundogan was a tremendously important player last season as City concluded their lengthy wait for their first Champions League title, and he also played a key role in the team overtaking long-time Premier League leaders Arsenal.
The German’s influence didn’t end there, as a brace of goals at Wembley helped City beat Manchester United 2-1 to win the FA Cup – the first a magnificent volley from outside the box that was the fastest goal in a final.
Gundogan’s contract at the Etihad expired this summer, and despite Pep Guardiola’s desire for him to stay, he has chosen to move to La Liga in search of a fresh challenge.
“For me it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years,” Gundogan told City’s official website upon confirmation of his exit. “Manchester has been my home and I have felt part of a very special family at City.
“I have been lucky to have experienced so many unforgettable moments in my time here and to have been captain for this extra special season has been the greatest experience of my career.
“First, I would like to thank Pep. To have been able to play under and learn from him for so long has been something I will never forget. I would also like to thank all my team-mates – past and present – who have all played such a special part in making my time here so amazing.
“Finally, I would like to thank the incredible City fans. They have supported me from the moment I arrived, and I owe them all so much for their support.
“This club made me realise all my dreams and I will forever be thankful for this opportunity.
“I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue.”
Gundogan played 304 times for City across all leagues and scored 60 goals from midfield. He won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four Carabao Cups, two Community Shields, and, most significantly, the Champions League.
He will now join a Barcelona midfield that features players like Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi. Xavi’s team is now ready to compete for the Champions League title after easily winning La Liga last season ahead of rival Real Madrid.
.@IlkayGuendogan joins Barcelona 👇
— Manchester City (@ManCity) June 26, 2023