Ilkay Gundogan has LEFT Manchester City after seven years at the Etihad… with a move to Barcelona waiting in the wings for the Treble winner
Manchester City have released captain Ilkay Gundogan and are yet to sign a new contract with the player amid strong interest from Barcelona.
Gundogan’s name was published on a list of players whose contracts have expired, and while it doesn’t mean the midfielder is on the verge of leaving the club, it highlights uncertainty over his future at Etihad.
The player shared on Saturday night that he was yet to make a decision about his playing future after the final whistle sounded for Man City’s Champions League final victory in Istanbul.
The Germany international has been with the club since 2016 and was manager Pep Guardiola’s first signing after the Catalan coach joined the English champions.
But despite being offered a contract extension to continue playing at Etihad for the 2023-24 season, Gundogan can still move on, with a move to Barcelona the most likely destination.
Ilkay Gundogan has been fired from Man City, but could still sign a new contract with his team
The 32-year-old is heavily followed by the LaLiga winners, who are eager to see Lionel’s Messi disapprove of a return to the Camp Nou, immediately taking players out of a stronger financial position.
Barcelona consider the player a suitable replacement for outgoing midfielder Sergio Busquets, who is leaving Catalonia after 18 years, and they hope to secure Gundogan’s signature as soon as possible.
Gundogan may be convinced to leave Guardiola’s side due to the stronger contract offer made to him by the Spanish team, who are reportedly willing to give him a three-year contract.
If this season was his last at the Etihad, the midfielder went out with a bang after winning the Treble on Saturday
The Catalan club is said to have asked for an answer from the midfielder on Tuesday if he is ready to join them.
If the end of the season has abolished the City captain’s time in Manchester, he said goodbye in style and ended the season in blistering form.
Important Premier League goals against Leeds, Everton and Liverpool were followed by a brace in City’s FA Cup final with crosstown rivals Manchester United.
Man City have also released young talents Terrell Agyemang and Rowan McDonald and Benjamin Mendy, who are currently facing a new trial for rape and assault, having been cleared of seven charges in January 2023 following his first trial in 2022.