Manchester City have re-signed former captain Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona on an initial one-year contract, with the option for an additional 12 months.
The German midfielder, who became Pep Guardiola’s first signing at City in 2016, spent seven years with the club before moving to Barcelona on a free transfer in 2023.
During his first stint at the Etihad, the 33-year-old won 14 trophies and scored 60 goals in 304 appearances.
“My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch,” said Gundogan.
“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.
“Honestly, I cannot wait to wear the City shirt again.”
Despite an impressive debut campaign in Spain, Barcelona decided to part with Gundogan after struggling to register new signing Dani Olmo due to the club’s financial issues.
Gundogan was one of the club’s highest earners and his departure on a free transfer will help Barcelona comply with La Liga spending restrictions.
“I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad,” Gundogan wrote on Instagram following the announcement.
Gundogan expressed his enthusiasm about “looking forward to helping my teammates in the new campaign” while also acknowledging his gratitude for the 12 months he spent at the club.
Capped 82 times for Germany, Gundogan announced his retirement from international football following the country’s Euro 2024 quarter-final exit to Spain.