Ilkay Gundogan is reportedly considering a sensational return to Manchester City just a year after he left for Barcelona.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Ilkay Gundogan is open to rejoining Manchester City as he has asked to leave Barcelona. The 33-year-old only signed for the Catalan giants on a free transfer in 2023, and with a year left on his deal, the Blaugrana might cash in.
Ilkay Gundogan to rejoin Manchester City?
Manchester City considered Ilkay Gundogan a key star, and certainly, Pep Guardiola felt his departure was huge for the club. The then-treble winners even tried to sign Declan Rice in a huge deal to replace the 33-year-old German midfielder. But Arsenal managed to beat them to his signature.
They have since signed Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes. But neither has come close to replacing the German international. Manchester City did offer a new deal to Gundogan, but he was lured by the idea of playing for Barcelona, for whom he has since become a key star. Manchester City are still keen on bringing a midfielder, with Bruno Guimaraes a target, although Newcastle United will block any late bids from suitors.
New boss Hansi Flick also rates him and hinted that he might be staying after the midfielder’s absence for the matchday squad to face Valencia. However, the report states that Gundogan has asked to leave Barcelona and is interested in returning to Manchester City.
He has a year left on his current deal, which gives Barcelona the chance to cash in on him and save on his wages amid turbulent financial times at the club. The report also states that Manchester City might be interested in bringing the 2023 Barcelona signing back to the club. However, there are many other factors to consider before fans can see one of their former critical stars playing at the Etihad again.
Will Manchester City re-sign Gundogan?
Gundogan seemed comfortable with his surroundings at Manchester City and was one of their standout players until his departure. He is not particularly happy at Barcelona, and his comments in the aftermath of some terrible performances show a desire not seen across that squad. Many factors could see the Wantaway 2023 Barcelona signing leave the club, with Borussia Dortmund also keen on the player.
Either way, Guardiola would love the idea of a reunion for a player he has not managed to replace theoretically. However, any deal will depend on the kind of money Barcelona might demand, the sort of wages the 33-year-old might demand, and whether he will be open to signing a short-term deal at the Etihad.
