Football

‘United fans ka asli dushman jaa raha hai’ – Fans react as Ilkay Gundogan joins FC Barcelona on free transfer

FC Barcelona have made a statement signing as Ilkay Gundogan joins the club on a free transfer.

Jun 26, 2023 3:19 pm

Ilkay Gundogan, the club’s captain, will officially join Barcelona after leaving Manchester City on a free transfer. Gundogan turned down a new contract from City to sign a two-year deal with the Spanish champions. The German midfielder said it was a “total privilege and pleasure” to have played for the team.

His contract with City expires at the end of June. The 32-year-old participated in 51 games in 2022–2023, scoring 11 goals and helping City win the Treble. In his final seven appearances, he scored six goals, including two in the 2-1 FA Cup victory over Manchester United.

The buyout clause in Gundogan’s Barcelona deal is worth around 400 million euros. He was the club’s first acquisition under manager Pep Guardiola and came to City from Borussia Dortmund in 2016 for a reputed £20 million. Gundogan continued to play, scoring 60 goals in 304 games, and winning 12 major trophies, including five Premier League championships, one Champions League, two FA Cups, and four Carabao Cups.

“I owe them all so much for their support”. : Ilkay Gundogan

Ilkay Gundogan wrote about his experience and how the final season at the club was a memorable experience that he would never want to forget. He also thanked the club, the players and the manager. He said, “First, I would like to thank Pep. To have been able to play under and learn from him for so long has been something I will never forget. I would also like to thank all my teammates – past and present who have all played such a special part in making my time here so amazing.”

He also took a moment to show gratitude towards the City fans for their unwavering support towards him and the club. He said, “Furthermore I would like to thank the incredible City fans. They have supported me from the moment I arrived, and I owe them all so much for their support.”

Gundogan’s “intelligence, leadership, and commitment” to the team, according to city director Txiki Begiristain, have been a “inspiration to everyone” and have been commended. He said, “Ilkay has truly cemented his place in the history of Manchester City, and we all wish him well in the next chapter of his career. And he leaves us knowing that he will always be welcomed at this football club.”

Fans react as Ilkay Gundogan joins FC Barcelona on free transfer : –

After 7 years a wonderful time ends. You made me realize all my dreams. 🏆💯 I will carry you forever in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue! Thank you @ManCity! 💙🫶🏼 pic.twitter.com/YLCrsJU0TG

— Ilkay Gündogan (@IlkayGuendogan) June 26, 2023

If it weren’t your master class Arsenal would have won the League. Thanks for giving us tears kumanina.
You are a baller 🤝

— Benjos (@Benjos47) June 26, 2023

Thank you for giving your all for the club and the fans, for unforgettable moments. You’ll always be in our hearts too as our captain and legend. We wish you the best on your new chapter. A Blue always and forever 🩵

— ˈnɛmɛsɪs (@saintjames420) June 26, 2023

A credit to our club, your family and most importantly yourself. Although very sad to see you go, I wish you the best of luck at Barca. A brilliant player and an absolute gentleman. Danke @IlkayGuendogan 💙

— John Pogson (@Pogmarnov) June 26, 2023

Arrived as a turkish nobody and left as a legend of the club

— Emcito fan (doesn't mean I'm old) (@Greco1897_) June 26, 2023

💙😭 pic.twitter.com/azKbNqijrZ

— happy flowers team (@ManCityKD) June 26, 2023

Mr Clutch is finally leaving.

Im very sad today. Thank you for all that you have done for our club. And good luck at Barcelona my man.

— Jake (@ReckersLive) June 26, 2023