İlkay Gündogan leaves Manchester City for Galatasaray just a year after returning to the Etihad from Barcelona.
His comeback to the Sky Blues may not have gone as he or the fans had hoped, but the German midfielder will always be remembered as one of the greatest players to wear the club’s shirt.
Gündogan was more than just a player during his time at City; he was a leader, captain, and decisive figure in some of the biggest moments in the club’s history.
Having led the team to an historic treble in the 2022/23 campaign, his influence on the pitch ensured that his name would remain etched in Manchester City’s legacy.
Treble-Winning Captain Leaves Behind a Legacy
The 2022/23 season was one of the finest in Manchester City’s history, and Gündogan played a central role.
Wearing the captain’s armband, he guided Pep Guardiola’s side to the Premier League, FA Cup, and the club’s first-ever UEFA Champions League title.
His goals, composure, and leadership set him apart as a player capable of delivering in crucial moments.
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After that historic campaign, Gündogan departed for Barcelona on a free transfer.
However, his stay in Spain lasted just one season before he made a shock return to Manchester City. His second spell, though, proved far less successful.
City endured a turbulent season, struggling to maintain consistency in the league and only battling for a top-four spot.
To compound matters, the Cityzens suffered a shock FA Cup final defeat to Crystal Palace, a result that exposed cracks in a squad needing renewal.
As part of the club’s summer rebuild, several senior players were moved on, and Gündogan was one of them.
Now at 35, he has decided to continue his career elsewhere, joining Galatasaray – the club he has long admired since childhood.
“I Still Want To Play Football” – Gündogan Explains
Speaking after sealing his move, Gündogan made clear that his decision was rooted in his desire to continue playing at the highest level, despite his age.
In an emotional farewell message, he said: “The reason why I’m leaving is very simple: I still want to play football as often as possible, because that’s what I love the most.
“I’ll turn 35 soon, but I still feel very fit and I truly believe I can continue to perform at a high level for a Champions League team.”
The midfielder added that Galatasaray offered him the perfect opportunity to do just that, while also fulfilling a personal dream of representing his favourite club.
“And not just that – I now have the opportunity to join my childhood favourite club, in a country that means so much to me.
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“Man City want a new beginning after an incredible era – something I can fully understand and respect. I will never, ever forget what this great club has done for me over so many years.”
For City fans, the fact that Gündogan leaves Manchester City after giving them some of the most iconic moments in their modern history ensures his exit is tinged with gratitude rather than disappointment.
