Ilkay Gundogan is on the verge of making a surprising return to Manchester City after just one season at Barcelona.
The midfielder has arrived in Manchester, where he is expected to rejoin Pep Guardiola’s squad. Gundogan, who will sign a one-year contract with an option for an additional year, recently met with Guardiola and City chief executive Ferran Soriano at the Tast Catala restaurant, owned by Guardiola. The trio discussed the 33-year-old’s return, with Soriano also spotted interacting with fans who were eager to take photos with the City legend.
Gundogan had joined Barcelona last year on a two-year deal and made 51 appearances, scoring five goals in his debut season. However, Barcelona’s ongoing financial struggles have made it difficult for the club to register new signings, including Dani Olmo, who recently transferred from RB Leipzig. While Gundogan’s departure alone won’t resolve Barcelona’s financial woes, it will alleviate some pressure.
City fans will be thrilled to see Gundogan back in the squad, providing valuable experience and depth in midfield. Guardiola has always held Gundogan in high regard, having made him his first signing at City in 2016. During his initial eight-year stint at the club, Gundogan made 304 appearances, scored 60 goals, and provided 38 assists, contributing to City’s triumphs in the Champions League, five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and four League Cups. He also captained the team during their historic treble-winning campaign in 2022-23.
Gundogan’s return marks City’s second signing of the summer, following the arrival of Savinho from Troyes. Off the pitch, Gundogan’s wife, Sara Arfaoui, has previously expressed her dissatisfaction with Manchester’s dining scene, lamenting the lack of quality restaurants in the city. Despite her earlier complaints, she recently admitted to missing life in Manchester, reflecting on the friendships and routine she had established there before their move to Spain.
As Gundogan prepares to don the City shirt once more, fans eagerly anticipate the impact he’ll bring to the team in the upcoming season.
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