Ilkay Gundogan has confirmed his departure from Barcelona after just one year at the club, citing the Catalan giants’ financial difficulties as a key reason behind his exit.
The German midfielder, who joined Barcelona on a free transfer from Manchester City in 2023, has now returned to the Premier League champions on a one-year deal with an option to extend for another year.
In an emotional farewell message to Barcelona fans on social media, Gundogan expressed his gratitude for the “incredible experiences” during his time at the club, but acknowledged the challenging situation he is leaving behind.
“Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad,” Gundogan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
The 33-year-old’s exit is expected to provide Barcelona with some much-needed financial relief as they continue to grapple with strict Spanish league rules on squad cost control. The club has been unable to register their new signing, Dani Olmo, due to these financial regulations.
Gundogan, who was the captain of Manchester City’s treble-winning team in 2022-23, made 51 appearances for Barcelona last season, contributing five goals and 14 assists as the team finished second in La Liga. However, his departure comes as a blow to Barcelona’s on-field ambitions.
In his farewell message, Gundogan expressed his love for the club, saying, “I always wanted to play at Barça, and I am very grateful for a memory and experience that I will remember for my life.”’
Barcelona fans will be hoping that Gundogan’s departure, along with the potential sale of striker Vitor Roque and the recent exits of captain Sergi Roberto and full-back Julian Araujo, will help the club navigate its financial challenges and strengthen the squad in the long run.
As for Gundogan, he is eager to reunite with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, under whom he won numerous trophies, including five Premier League titles and the Champions League.
The German international, who recently retired from international football, will be looking to add more silverware to his collection in his second stint at the Etihad Stadium.
