Ilkay Gundogan admitted he left Barcelona under “difficult” circumstances as his return to Manchester City was confirmed.
The 33-year-old turned down a contract extension at the Etihad last summer in order to move to Barcelona on a free transfer.
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But after just one season in Catalonia, the German midfielder has returned to his former homeland.
Barcelona were happy to part with the player as the club looks to reduce its salary bill, with Gundogan foregoing the remaining two years of his salary in Spain.
In return, the Blaugrana allowed the Citizens to sign the five-time Premier League champions for free.
Gündogan has signed a one-year contract at the Etihad with an option for a further 12 months.
However, he was not reappointed as the club’s captain; Kyle Walker retained the captain’s armband.
On social media, Gündogan spoke about his sadness at leaving the club, saying: “Dear Culers [Barca fans]After only one year it is already time to say goodbye.
“I came here to face a new, exciting challenge and I was ready for it.
“I gave everything to fight as best as I could for the team and the club in a difficult season and was looking forward to helping my teammates in the new season.
“Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, that makes me a little less sad.
“Nevertheless, it was a time of incredible experiences and ups and downs – I always wanted to play for Barça and I am very grateful for a memory and experience that I will remember for the rest of my life.”
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“I wish you all the best for the season and for the future. The fans deserve to bring this great club back to the top of the world.”
The Pitch Prospect reported earlier this week that Gündogan was eyeing an emotional comeback at City after seven trophy-laden seasons.
And after manager Pep Guardiola gave his blessing to the deal, City bosses acted quickly and secured his services for a second time.
Gündogan, who scored 60 goals in 304 games in all competitions during his first spell in charge, could make his second debut this weekend.
He was registered in time to play against newly promoted Ipswich in front of his enthusiastic fans on Saturday at 3 p.m.
Gündogan was Guardiola’s first signing at City after joining from Borussia Dortmund for £20 million in 2016.
And since the Spaniard is in the final year of his contract, the question arises whether the year in which the German international recently ended his career will also be his last.
Gündogan hopes to pick up where he left off at City after leaving the club following their historic 2022/23 treble-winning season.
This season, he has contributed eleven goals and seven assists in 51 games in all competitions.
He even scored both goals in the FA Cup final against rivals Manchester United in a 2-1 win at Wembley.
And you can certainly trust him to score a goal against the Tractor Boys if he is asked to do so.
More to follow …
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