Ilkay Gundogan to Sign for Barcelona on a Two-Year Deal
Ilkay Gundogan, the 32-year-old midfielder, is set to leave Manchester City and sign for Barcelona on an initial two-year deal. The player recently helped Manchester City win the treble, but turned down a one-year deal to remain at the Etihad in favour of a move to the Catalan giants. Gundogan and his representatives held talks after he finished international duty with Germany. The player’s decision is purely based on his family, and finances are not a problem. The Germany international will also have the option over a further year with Barcelona.
Barcelona’s Financial Viability Plans
The player was already planned well in advance, and part of Barca’s ‘financial viability plans’ that were approved by LaLiga at the start of the month. Once Gundogan passes his medical in Catalonia, he will then link up with Barcelona boss Xavi, who he has hailed in the past. “There was not a specific player for me, but there were players like Zidane or Xavi, or even a player like Andrea Pirlo,” Gundogan said earlier this year. “They are players I loved to watch and enjoyed very much—maybe the reason is that I play a similar position to them.”
Gundogan’s Career at Manchester City
The 32-year-old was Pep Guardiola’s first signing in 2016 and went on to make more than 300 appearances for the club. He won 14 trophies while at the Etihad, including five Premier League titles. Gundogan’s departure will be a loss for Manchester City, but the club is known for its ability to replace players with quality signings.
Conclusion
Ilkay Gundogan’s move to Barcelona on an initial two-year deal is a significant development in the world of football. The German midfielder has been an integral part of Manchester City’s success in recent years, and his departure will be a loss for the club. However, Manchester City is known for its ability to replace players with quality signings, and the club will undoubtedly look to do so in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Barcelona will be delighted to have secured the services of a player who has won 14 trophies in his career and has been hailed as one of the best midfielders in the world.