Ilkay Gundogan has confirmed his departure from Barcelona ahead of his expected return to Manchester City
Gundogan joined Barcelona last summer after his contract with Manchester City ended, but he has now departed the Spanish club after only one season.
Barcelona needs to cut their salary costs to register new signing Dani Olmo, whom they acquired from RB Leipzig earlier this summer for £51 million.
The Catalan club has consented to allow the German midfielder to leave without a transfer fee, while Gundogan has forgone the remaining two years of his contract and the £17 million in wages he was due
Gundogan has signed a one-year contract with his former club City, with the possibility of extending for another year, and was officially announced as a City player on Friday morning.
On the same day, the 33-year-old shared a statement on social media confirming his exit from Barcelona. The statement reads:
Dear Culers,
“After just one year, it’s time to say goodbye. I came here seeking a new, exciting challenge and was ready for it.
“I have given my all to support the team and the club during a challenging season and was eager to assist my teammates in the upcoming campaign.
“Although I’m leaving under difficult circumstances, knowing that my departure could aid the club financially makes it a bit easier to bear.
“Nonetheless, this period has been filled with incredible experiences, both highs and lows. Playing at Barça was a dream, and I am deeply grateful for the memories and experiences that I will cherish forever.
“I wish you all the best for the season and the future. The fans deserve to see this great club return to being the world’s best.
Visca el Barça! Best wishes, Ilkay.”
