Ilkay Gundogan reveals why he left Manchester City to join Barcelona
Former Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan has revealed why he left Manchester City to join La Liga champions Barcelona this summer.
Gundogan spent seven years at Man City after joining them from Borussia Dortmund in 2016. He also helped them to win a treble last season.
Furthermore, City did try to extend his contract, but he wanted to leave the club. After Barcelona manager Xavi approached him he was destined to sign for them.
The German international has signed a two-year contract with Barca, including a 12-month option. Moreover, he also has a release clause of €400 million.
Why Gundogan left Man City?
Gundogan reveals why he left Man City: “City waited a relatively long time until the talks really intensified”.
“In the end it was the perfect ending, it couldn’t have come at a better time. It was also my childhood dream to play for FC Barcelona”, told BILD.
After Gundogan left the club, City decided to replace him with Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea. Pep was also a big fan of Kovacic, so they decided to go for him rather than spending big bucks on Declan Rice.
Moreover, the Treble winners have also signed Wolves’ Matheus Nunes after De Bruyne suffered a hamstring injury.
Despite all the talks that Barcelona could not sign big players due to their financial problems, one of the most impressive deals of this summer transfer window was signing Ilkay Gundogan for free.
Many clubs were ready to give him double the wages that Barca offered, but his sole desire to join them changed everything. Moreover, he will be a good mentor to players like Pedri and Gavi.
