Former Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan could return to Etihad Stadium after spending just one season at Barcelona.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The Germany international ended a seven-year association with Manchester City last summer as he moved to Barcelona on a two-year deal. However, Sport reports that the player wants to move out of the club in the ongoing summer transfer window and as a result, he was left out of the matchday squad in the club’s season opener against Valencia. The report further states that Gundogan is eyeing a return to Etihad Stadium.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Per The Sun, Pep Guardiola is willing to reunite with the midfielder this season after young attacker Oscar Bobb fractured his leg on the eve of the 2024-25 campaign. Bobb’s injury comes as a huge blow for the Cityzens who had high hopes for the youngster after his performances during pre-season.
Barcelona, on the other hand, are yet to register new signing Dani Olmo despite the player being physically ready to take the field due to their financial constraints. Along with Olmo, Ronald Araujo has also not been registered as the Uruguayan defender remains injured post-Copa America 2024.
DID YOU KNOW?
The 33-year-old made 51 appearances for the Catalan club in the 2023-24 season across competitions where he managed to score just five goals and provided 14 assists. He endured a trophyless season for the first time in seven years.
WHAT NEXT FOR ILKAY GUNDOGAN?
Reports earlier emerged that Gundogan has been linked with a move to the Turkish Super Lig as Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho desperately wants to sign the experienced German. He also has offers from the Saudi Pro League and Qatar, however, the player wants to head back to the Premier League.