It looks like Manchester City fans have something to get excited about—Ilkay Gundogan might be coming back. According to reports from The Athletic and transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the former City midfielder has struck a deal to return to the Etihad after just a short stint with FC Barcelona.
Gundogan originally left Manchester City about 14 months ago, following an incredible season where he led the team as captain to win a historic treble, including their first-ever Champions League title. He viewed his move to Barcelona as a dream opportunity, even though City had offered him a more lucrative contract to stay.
Challenges Faced by Gundogan in Barcelona
However, things didn’t go as smoothly as Gundogan might have hoped in Spain. With key players like Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong sidelined by injuries, Gundogan stepped up and became one of Barca’s most reliable performers during a challenging, trophyless season. Despite this, the club has been through some turmoil, including a change in management with Hansi Flick taking over from Xavi Hernandez. Flick, as the captain of the German national team, seemed set to keep the 33-year-old at the core of Barca’s midfield.
But rumors started swirling when Gundogan was unexpectedly left out of Barca’s squad for their opening match against Valencia. He took to Twitter to congratulate his teammates on their dramatic comeback. Meanwhile, Flick stated on Spanish TV that he believed Gundogan would stay. However, rumors from outlets like Cadena SER and Radio Catalunya suggested something else: a possible comeback to Manchester City.
And then, Romano dropped the news: Pep Guardiola is on board with bringing Gundogan back. Less than a day later, Romano and The Athletic confirmed that City and Gundogan had reached a full agreement. Gundogan’s two-year Barcelona contract will be terminated. It allowed him to sign a one-year deal with City and an optional extension.
City fans and staff will likely celebrate this return, as Gundogan played a key role in their recent successes. Meanwhile, some Barcelona fans are puzzled as to why the club let a key player leave for free.
