MANCHESTER: Manchester City have re-signed Ilkay Gundogan on a one-year contract, with an option for an additional 12 months, bringing the former captain back to the Etihad Stadium.
The 33-year-old German midfielder, who left City for Barcelona in 2023 after leading them to a historic treble, has returned after just one season with the Catalan club. During his time in Spain, Gundogan scored five goals and provided 14 assists, though Barcelona did not secure any trophies.
City manager Pep Guardiola welcomed the decision to bring Gundogan back, stating that the move was an easy one. “Gundogan called me to discuss the possibility of returning, and we agreed immediately,” Guardiola said. “He played exceptionally well last season and will provide us with a fantastic alternative.”
Guardiola also noted that Gundogan’s familiarity with the team and his positional awareness make him a valuable asset. He could feature in City’s Premier League match against Ipswich Town on Saturday.
Gundogan’s return is a boost for City, who recently sold Argentina forward Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid and are missing winger Oscar Bobb for up to four months due to a leg injury sustained in training.
Gundogan originally joined City from Borussia Dortmund in 2016 as Guardiola’s first signing with the club.
