Former Manchester City captain Ilkay Gündoğan could return to the Etihad Stadium after spending just one season at Barcelona.
The Germany international ended a seven-year association with Manchester City last summer by joining Barcelona on a two-year deal. However, Sport reports that the player wants to leave the club in the ongoing summer transfer window and as a result, he has been left out of the matchday squad for the club’s season opener against Valencia. The report further states that Gündoğan is considering a return to the Etihad Stadium.
According to The Sun, Pep Guardiola is set to return to the midfield this season after young striker Oscar Bobb suffered a broken leg on the eve of the 2024-25 campaign. Bobb’s injury is a blow to the Cityzens who had high hopes for the youngster following his performances during pre-season.
Gundogan de return?
Barcelona, on the other hand, have yet to register new signing Dani Olmo, although the player is physically ready to take to the pitch due to their financial constraints. Just like Olmo, Ronald Araujo has also not been registered, with the Uruguayan defender still injured after the 2024 Copa America.
The 33-year-old made 51 appearances for the Catalan club in the 2023-24 season, across all competitions, where he managed to score just five goals and provide 14 assists. He had a trophyless season for the first time in seven years.
IN BRIEF
- German international Ilkay Gündoğan left Manchester City for Barcelona last summer on a two-year contract.
- Gündoğan wants to leave Barcelona and could return to Manchester City, especially after the injury of striker Oscar Bobb.
- Find out why Gündoğan is considering a return to the Etihad Stadium and the implications for Barcelona and Manchester City.
