Ilkay Gundogan's Shocking Move: Legendary Manchester City Captain Signs with Barcelona as Contract Nears Expiry

Manchester City's captain, Ilkay Gundogan, has departed from the club to join Barcelona after his contract came to an end.

Following a remarkable season for Manchester, Gundogan played a crucial role in their triumphs, securing the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League titles in just one month.

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Having joined from Borussia Dortmund in 2016, he spent a remarkable seven years at the Etihad Stadium. Throughout this time, manager Pep Guardiola consistently expressed his interest in extending his stay even further. With his contract coming to an end this week, Gundogan was in discussions with the club regarding a potential new deal.

The deal on offer for the 32-year-old player was one year plus an option for another 12 months. However, the length of the contract was a problem, so he has instead signed a two-year agreement with Barcelona, which also includes a 12-month option. His release clause is now set at €400m. Gundogan expressed his gratitude and enjoyment for being a part of Manchester City for the past seven years on the club's website.

Manchester has been my residence, and being part of the City has made me feel like I belong to a truly remarkable family. Throughout my time here, I have been fortunate to witness numerous unforgettable moments. Moreover, being the captain during this exceptional season has been the pinnacle of my professional journey.

I am incredibly grateful to Pep for the opportunity to play under his guidance and learn from him. It is an experience that will always hold a special place in my heart.

Furthermore, I would like to express my appreciation to all of my teammates, both past and present, who have contributed to making my time here absolutely incredible.

"I am immensely grateful to the amazing City fans who have stood by me since my arrival. Their unwavering support has meant the world to me, and I can never thank them enough.

"This incredible club has allowed me to turn my dreams into reality, and I will forever cherish this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

"I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue."

'Gundogan leaves Man City on a very special high'

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Gundogan led Manchester City to the treble as captain, a remarkable feat acknowledged by City's director of football, Txiki Begiristain. Begiristain praised Gundogan as an "inspirational" figure, especially as his highly anticipated move to Barcelona on a free transfer was officially announced.

The captain, who led the team to a treble triumph, declined the opportunity to remain at City and is now poised to join Barca. His buyout clause has been set at €400m (£342m) by the club, and he is expected to sign until 2025 once his current contract expires. Gundogan, who became manager Pep Guardiola's initial signing in July 2016, concluded his tenure on a high note by securing the Champions League title in his 304th and last game, defeating Inter Milan.

"Ilkay's contributions as a cherished member of Manchester City cannot be understated. Departing the club on a remarkable high, he has admirably captained us to an unprecedented treble," expressed Begiristain.

"In recent seasons, Ilkay has played an instrumental role in our triumphs, and his astuteness, exemplary leadership, and unwavering dedication to the club, both on and off the field, have been a source of inspiration for all."

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