German midfielder returns to Manchester after one season in Spain
Ilkay Gundogan has rejoined Manchester City, just 12 months after leaving the club for Barcelona.
The German midfielder originally signed for the Blues in 2016, and went on to make 304 appearances for the club, scoring 60 goals.
He memorably captained the side to an historic treble in his final season, netting twice against rivals United to help seal the FA Cup trophy.
His brief spell in Catalonia was cut short when Barcelona allowed him to leave on a free transfer, and Gundogan seized the opportunity to return to Manchester.
“My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch,” Gundogan said.
“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.
“And what can I say about my teammates here at City…they are world class footballers. I am genuinely delighted to have the chance to train and play alongside them.
“Honestly, I cannot wait to wear the City shirt again.”
City’s Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Ilkay is one of the finest professionals I have ever worked with. His dedication to football and his approach to every single training session is something special.
“He is also an exceptional midfielder. His reading of the game, his football intelligence, his technical quality and his leadership make him an excellent addition to our squad.
“To be able to bring him back here is fantastic news for everyone. He will help us in our main objective, which is to win trophies, but he will also be an inspiration to so many.”