Ilkay Gundogan Sends Heartfelt Message to Barcelona After Transfer From Man City

• Ilkay Gundogan recently completed his transfer to Barcelona
• The former Man City captain joins the Blaugrana on a free transfer
• Gundogan has sent a special message to fans of his new club

German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has joined Barcelona on a free transfer from Manchester City.

The 32-year-old was Man City's captain just before departing the Premier League side.

In an end-of-season performance for the ages, the German midfielder was critical to ensuring his seven-year stint at the club ended in ultimate glory with a first UEFA Champions League win.

But with his contract expiring this summer, he decided that it was time for a new challenge after seven years in England.

Gundogan’s message to Barcelona fans

Gundogan has signed a deal with Barcelona until June 2025. His contract includes a €400 million buyout clause. The German midfielder also sent a message to his new fans.

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Speaking to Barcelona fans in a TikTok video, Gundogan said:

"Hola culers. I am very happy to sign with Barca, excited for this new journey and to join this beautiful club. See you soon. Forza Barca."

Gundogan also delivered a message to Man City supporters via a statement published on the club's official website.

Quoted by Sports Illustrated, the message read:

"For me it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years.

"Manchester has been my home and I have felt part of a very special family at City.

"I have been lucky to have experienced so many unforgettable moments in my time here and to have been captain for this extra special season has been the greatest experience of my career.

"First, I would like to thank Pep. To have been able to play under and learn from him for so long has been something I will never forget.

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"I would also like to thank all my teammates – past and present – who have all played such a special part in making my time here so amazing.

"Finally, I would like to thank the incredible City fans. They have supported me from the moment I arrived, and I owe them all so much for their support.

"This club made me realise all my dreams and I will forever be thankful for this opportunity.

"I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue."

Gundogan won 14 trophies with City, including five Premier League titles.

He had previously won the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup with Borussia Dortmund in Germany.

Gundogan could leave Barcelona already

Sports Brief earlier reported Gundogan could be on his way out of Barcelona even though he only recently joined the La Liga champions.

Gundogan joined La Liga champions, Barcelona, on a free transfer after capturing a European treble in his final year at the Etihad Stadium.

The midfielder will not take a risk and has a special clause inserted in his contract that could see him depart Barcelona if the club is not able to register him due to any financial problems.