Manchester City confirms the return of Ilkay Gundogan

Manchester City have confirmed the return of Ilkay Gundogan exactly one year after he left the club to join Barcelona on a free transfer.

The Premier League Champions confirmed the return of the German on its official website on Friday, August 23, 2024. Ilkay Gundogan signed a one-year deal that will keep him at the Etihad at least until the 2025 summer transfer window with an option to extend by an extra year.

Ilkay Gundogan expressed his delight during his first interview on Manchester City's website.

He said,

"My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch. I grew as a person and a player, developed a special relationship with the City fans and enjoyed amazing success. It was an exceptional period in my life. To have the opportunity to return here means so much. Everyone knows the respect I have for Pep, he is the best manager in the world and working with him every day makes you a better player. You feel constantly challenged, which for any professional is exactly what you want. I cannot wait to work with him again."

The German midfielder won 12 major trophies, including five Premier Leagues and the Champions League, in seven years during his first spell at the Etihad Stadium.

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