Gündogan Eyes Manchester City Return

Ilkay Gündogan, Manchester City‘s former captain, is considering a return to the club from Barcelona. After leaving City just over a year ago, Gündogan now wants out of Barcelona, creating a potential opportunity for him to return to the Premier League.

During his time at Manchester City, Gündogan spent seven successful seasons, winning five league titles and the coveted Champions League trophy. He ended his City career on a high note by scoring two goals in the FA Cup final.

Now 33 years old and with two years left on his contract at Barcelona, he has not seen much game action there. Despite assurances from German head coach Hansi Flick about Gündogan’s future with the team, speculation grows about his departure.

Manchester City is currently looking to strengthen their squad and bringing Gündogan back could be a perfect solution. Pep Guardiola has made it clear that he is open to adding another central midfielder to relieve Rodri of some pressure.

Gündogan’s versatility, having played both as a No. 8 and as a defensive midfielder during his previous stint at City, makes him an attractive target for Guardiola.

In Spain, Gündogan helped Barcelona secure a second-place finish in La Liga, trailing Real Madrid by 10 points and reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League, where they faced Paris Saint-Germain.

With Barcelona facing financial challenges, letting go of a high-earner like Gündogan could ease some of the pressure on their wage expenses.

Gündogan also recently announced his retirement from international football after leading Germany to the quarter-finals of the EURO 2024. He expressed pride in his national team journey, having played 82 times for Germany.

Following a disappointing season for Germany in major tournaments, where they were eliminated in the group stage of the 2018 World Cup and in the round of 16 at the Euro 2020, fans are hoping for a turnaround.

As the transfer market approaches its deadline, Gündogan’s situation remains uncertain, but both Manchester City and Barcelona are watching closely.