Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is set to head back to Manchester City after just one season at the club. The 33-year-old joined on a two-year deal, with a third triggered by his appearances, but is leaving in part to help Barcelona out with their salary limit predicament.
Reportedly manager Hansi Flick has also told him that he would not feature as much as he would like this season, with Pedri, Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez alternatives in his preferred position. However Barcelona opened the door to Gundogan to leave, as they try to reduce their wage bill. He is set to join Manchester City on a one-year deal for free.
Gundogan has published a message on his Instagram bidding farewell to Barcelona fans, after a tricky season at Montjuic.
The veteran midfielder mentions that it is a ‘difficult’ situation in which he is leaving, adding that the fans deserve a return to the top of the game. He also said that his departure was aiding the club financially. Reports vary, but it appears that Barcelona will save between €15-20m on his wages this season.
Gundogan finished the season as Barcelona’s leading assist-provider, having laid on 14 assists for his teammates. He also scored five goals, and was Xavi Hernandez’s most used player, making 51 appearances.
