FC Barcelona announced, on Monday, that it had signed German international midfielder Ilkay Gundogan on a free deal, after his contract with Manchester City expired. Barcelona indicated that Gundogan’s contract (32 years) extends for two seasons until June 30, 2025, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year, and the value of the penalty clause is 400 million euros ($ 435.72 million).
Gundogan, 32, left City after carrying the captaincy of his club in an amazing season and crowned the English Premier League, the FA Cup and the European Champions League, to end a 7-year career in England during which he won 14 titles, including 5 local league titles.
Gundogan said in a statement: “For me, it has been an honor to play in City for the last 7 years. Manchester City represented my home, and I felt part of a very exceptional family in City.” He added, "I was fortunate to pass through many unforgettable moments during my stay here, and carrying the armband during this exceptional season was the best experience in my career."
Gundogan was the first player to be included by Pep Guardiola after taking over City training in 2016, although the German player was suffering at the time from a knee injury while he was with Borussia Dortmund. Gundogan proved to be the man of big occasions with City, especially in the last two seasons, as he scored many crucial goals in his club's career.
Gundogan leaves after playing more than 300 matches there and scoring 60 goals. Gundogan will be a great addition to coach Xavi's squad in Barcelona, especially after the departure of veteran midfielder Sergio Busquets after 18 years in the ranks of the Spanish champion. Barcelona won the league title last season, but failed to pass through the group stage in the Champions League, and was eliminated by the King's Cup final.
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