Former Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan has returned to the club on a one-year deal after leaving Barcelona.
The German midfielder leaves the LaLiga side on a free transfer as they look to ship players out to register Dani Olmo for the 2024-25 campaign.
Gundogan was Pep Guardiola’s first signing when he arrived at the club in 2016 and could be his last as the Spaniard’s future in Manchester remains up in the air.
The 33-year-old won 14 trophies during his first stint at the Etihad, making over 300 appearances and scoring more than 50 goals.
Speaking for the first time back as a Manchester City player, he said: “I’m incredibly happy.
“Happy to see the team-mates, the staff, people that over seven years I had an amazing time with, a very successful time with.
“Many ups, a few downs, but in general, an incredible experience.
He’s home 🏡🩵
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 23, 2024
“When you leave this place like I did last year, you spend a year away, you then start to appreciate the place even more.
“You realise what you had. You realise how amazing that time was.
“You realise how big the club is – the best club in the world.
“My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch.
“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.
“Honestly, I cannot wait to wear the City shirt again.”
Gundogan was one of the highest earners at Barcelona but was happy to step aside to allow the club to register new faces.
He enjoyed a successful 12 months in Spain, making 51 appearances and registering 19 goal contributions.
Gundogan also recently retired from the German national team following their exit from Euro 2024.
He will now focus on helping City chase down their fifth consecutive Premier League title.
