The Unveiling of Ilkay Gundogan's Departure from Manchester City

10 months ago

In a surprising turn of events, Ilkay Gundogan, the former captain of Manchester City, recently divulged the true reasons behind his departure from the club. This article is The Unveiling of Ilkay Gundogan's Departure from Manchester City.

A Late Start to Contract Talks

One of the central factors that influenced Gundogan's exit from Manchester City was the delay in contract negotiations. Despite leading City to victory in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League, Gundogan revealed that the club initiated serious contract discussions "quite late in the season."

Gundogan's contract with Manchester City reached its conclusion, leaving him as a free agent. In a move that surprised many, he signed with Barcelona during the summer transfer window. While his childhood fondness for Barcelona played a role, there were deeper motivations behind this decision.

"In the end, it wasn't about a year or two," Gundogan stated. The length of the contract wasn't the issue; it was the timing of the negotiations. Gundogan pointed out that City waited until late in the season to intensify contract talks. He emphasized, "If this had happened a little earlier, the situation would have been different."

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A Perfect Ending

Gundogan's time at Manchester City culminated in a historic treble. Reflecting on this achievement, he noted, "In the end [the treble] was the perfect ending, it couldn't have come at a better time. It was also my childhood dream to play for FC Barcelona."

As the final weeks of the last season approached, Gundogan found himself in a state of uncertainty. "When it comes to a Champions League quarter-final or semi-final, players want to concentrate purely on sport. I didn't know what would happen next. I couldn't plan anything," he confessed.

While Gundogan was able to bid farewell to his teammates with a joint party, circumstances meant he could only speak with Pep Guardiola over the phone. He recalled, "Unfortunately, I didn't say goodbye in person because I only made the decision after the Champions League final, two days before the Germany game against Colombia." Despite the emotional conversation, Pep was supportive of Gundogan's move to Barcelona and offered his continued assistance.

Ilkay Gundogan's departure from Manchester City was not solely driven by a desire to join Barcelona. Instead, it was influenced by the timing of contract talks and the uncertainty surrounding his future. As he embarks on a new chapter in his career, the memories of his triumphant tenure with Manchester City will forever hold a special place in his heart.