Ilkay Gundogan seems unlikely to encounter any significant obstacles in reconciling with Manchester City. Josep Guardiola reportedly gave his blessing to The Cityzens to recruit the midfielder again.
As is well known, in 2023 Gundogan made a big decision. He left Manchester City to join Barcelona.
According to several reports from Spanish media, it is not new coach Hansi Flick who does not want to use Gundogan’s services, but rather Barcelona management who wants to release him. The main reason is financial.
At Barcelona, Gundogan receives a fairly large salary. By releasing him, Barcelona can reduce their salary burden by up to €14 million.
Entering his second season at Barcelona, Gundogan was actually quite enthusiastic. This is because Barcelona has a new coach, Hansi Flick, who previously coached Gundogan in the German National Team.
However, in the first week of La Liga, when Barcelona won 2-1 over hosts Valencia, Gundogan’s name was not included in the squad. Initially, there was news that he was not included in the squad for the visit to Mestalla because he had previously asked to leave.
After that, other news circulated stating that Gundogan actually did not want to leave. However, the club wanted to release him in order to reduce the burden of wages.
The summer transfer window will close soon, so there is not much time for Gundogan to find a new club. However, what is clear is that he is certain to move.
Gundogan reportedly wants to return to Manchester City. The good news is, Pep has given his blessing to the transfer.
According to the report, Pep Guardiola has given Manchester City permission to re-recruit Gundogan.
Pep really likes the midfielder. He considers the midfielder’s presence to be crucial for The Cityzens squad.
That is why as soon as he found out Gundogan was available on the transfer market, Pep asked City management to complete the transfer.
According to Romano’s report, Manchester City representatives have started moving to secure Gundogan’s services.
They have spoken with the agent. They have offered him the chance to rejoin the Cityzens.
Negotiations are ongoing, with City working hard to convince Gundogan to return to their team.
Manchester City are not the only club interested in signing Gundogan.
A number of clubs from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Turkey are also reported to be interested in the midfielder.
Gundogan was recruited by Barcelona from Manchester City in the summer of 2023. At that time, Gundogan joined Camp Nou on a free transfer.
Gundogan was contracted by Barcelona for two years with an option to extend the contract for 12 months.
During his one year defending Barcelona, Gundogan played 51 matches in all competitions. He scored five goals and 14 assists from his appearances.
