Ilkay Gundogan: Manchester City Completes Barcelona Move After Winning Treble

Ilkay Gundogan: Manchester City Completes Barcelona Move After Winning Treble

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
updated at June 22, 2023 at 8:49 AM
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  • Ilkay Gundogan has reportedly completed a blockbuster switch to Barcelona
  • Manchester City had offered him the chance to remain at the Etihad Stadium
  • Gundogan has decided to join La Liga after nine seasons in the Premier League

FC Barcelona have completed the signing of Manchester City captain, Ilkay Gundogan, according to multiple reports.

Gundogan, who played a pivotal role in Man City's historic treble-winning season, is said to have reached an agreement with the Catalan giants.

His contract will reportedly span two years, until June 2025, and includes an option for an additional year.

Ilkay Gundogan, Barcelona, Manchester City
Ilkay Gundogan has completed a move to Barcelona. Photo credit: @FabrizioRomano/Twitter @brfootball/Twitter
Source: Twitter

Following Barcelona's unsuccessful attempt to re-sign former captain and club legend, Lionel Messi, the German international quickly emerged as the top priority on their transfer wishlist.

However, the La Liga champions faced stiff competition from Man City, who were eager to retain their legendary player. Additionally, Arsenal and clubs in Saudi Arabia also expressed their interest in acquiring Gundogan's services.

After an extended period of negotiations and strategic planning, Barcelona have stolen a march on their competitors, successfully completing the deal they had been working on for several months, per Fabrizio Romano.

Gundogan's time at Man City

With an impressive record of over 300 appearances for Man City, Gundogan bids farewell to the Etihad Stadium leaving behind a remarkable legacy of 100 goal contributions consisting of 60 goals and 40 assists.

During his tenure, he celebrated numerous triumphs, including five Premier League titles, two English FA Cups, four Carabao Cup victories, and a memorable Champions League campaign. His departure solidifies his status as a true legend of the club, per Transfermarkt.

Gundogan embarrasses Casemiro with skill

Sports Brief also reported that the FA Cup final on June 3 between the two Manchester clubs delivered enjoyment to neutrals, fulfilment to City fans, and despair for the Red Devils.

Man City captain, Gundogan, continued with his Zinedine Zidane-esque end-of-season form by banging in two volleys to ensure the Citizen's hunt for the treble remained intact.

At one point, City sat back and soaked up the pressure, before Manuel Akanji released his skipper. Casemiro saw an opportunity to close Gundogan down but was left on the grass.

Authors
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe photo
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and La Liga editor with five-year experience. He previously worked with Sports Corna and 360SportsGH.
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