Football/ Mercato: Ilkay Gündogan will return to Manchester City following an agreement between him and Pep Guardiola

Ilkay Gündogan’s brief stint with FC Barcelona is set to come to an unexpected end, as the German midfielder prepares to return to Manchester City. The move marks one of the major surprises of this summer’s transfer window.

Barcelona, grappling with financial challenges, has made the decision to part ways with Gündogan just ten days before the transfer market closes.

During his single season with the Blaugrana, Gündogan made 49 appearances, scored 5 goals, and provided 13 assists. Despite these contributions, the 33-year-old midfielder will now rejoin Manchester City.

According to reports from The Athletic, Gündogan’s contract with Barcelona will be terminated, allowing him to sign a one-year deal with City, with an option for an additional year.

This return reunites him with Pep Guardiola, under whom he made 301 appearances for City between 2017 and 2023.

The transfer not only signals a return to familiar surroundings for Gündogan but also reflects the broader financial and strategic adjustments being made at Barcelona, amid ongoing economic pressures.