Gundogan finally rejoins Manchester City from Barcelona on short-term deal

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Former Germany international, Ilkay Gundogan has left Barcelona as he sensationally re-joins Manchester City on a free transfer.

Just a year after leaving for Barcelona, the 33-year-old midfielder comes back to Pep Guardiola’s squad.

Having previously spent seven successful years at the Etihad, Gundogan signs a one-year deal, with an option for another.

ALSO READ:

• Gundogan’s beloved legacy at Manchester City fuels fans’ desire for heroic return
• Gundogan to leave Barcelona? – All you need to know about the German’s situation
• Gündogan at the double as Manchester City beat Manchester United to win FA Cup title
• Victor Boniface suspended and handed heavy fine after controversial Super Cup incident
• Ademola Lookman returns to Atalanta training amidst ongoing transfer speculation
• Remo Stars ready for Champions League showdown as CAF announce referee for ASFAR clash

“When managers say ‘this is the transfer window, anything can happen’, this is the real proof,” said Guardiola.

“It was a complete surprise, unexpected. We didn’t have any doubts when the possibility was open. Absolutely delighted he’s back.

“He knows what we want to do, he doesn’t need to adapt, he knows the city, the club, the way we want to play. He’ll immediately settle good.”

Three days ago, NRTC revealed Barcelona’s decision to let Ilkay Gundogan leave as part of wage bill reductions.

Gundogan, fresh from retiring from international football, has set his sights solely on returning to Manchester City, rejecting offers from Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

The German midfielder, who led City to a historic treble, previously amassed 304 appearances and 60 goals in his City career.

During his first stint at City, Gundogan secured 12 major trophies, including five Premier League titles and the Champions League.

His return marks City’s second summer acquisition, following the £33.6m signing of Savinho from French club Troyes.

Tags: Ilkay Gundogan, Gundogan, Manchester City, Barcelona, international football, Germany, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcsports, #nrtcnews, #NewsRoundTheClock.