Ilkay Gundogan has been linked with a surprising return to Manchester City, just over a year after he left the club for Barcelona.
Manchester City are reportedly interested in bringing back Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona in a move that would see the 33-year-old midfielder return to the Etihad. Gundogan left City last summer after his contract expired, choosing to join the La Liga giants.
In his debut season with Barcelona, Gundogan made 51 appearances, contributing five goals and 14 assists across all competitions. Although he was a regular starter under Xavi, he was notably absent from the squad in Hansi Flick’s first match as Barcelona’s manager against Valencia, not even making the bench for the trip to Mestalla.
According to The Athletic, Gundogan is now exploring his options at Barcelona and could potentially leave before the transfer window closes. There’s reported interest from clubs in the Premier League, Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Gundogan’s contract at Barcelona extends until 2026, having triggered an automatic extension last season. However, the club is reportedly eager to offload high earners like Gundogan, Ferran Torres, and Raphinha.
Pep Guardiola is said to have approved the idea of Gundogan returning to City, where he previously enjoyed a successful seven-year spell. During his time at City, Gundogan played 304 matches, scoring 60 goals and assisting 38 more, while helping the team win 12 major trophies, including five Premier League titles and a Champions League. He was a key figure in City’s treble-winning campaign during his final season.
If Gundogan does rejoin City, it would significantly bolster their midfield depth. City signed Matheus Nunes from Wolves for £53 million to fill Gundogan’s shoes, but Nunes struggled to find regular playing time under Guardiola last season. While some players take time to adapt at City, there is speculation that cashing in on Nunes might not be a bad idea if Gundogan is on his way back.
City also added Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea to strengthen their midfield, and his impact has been more positive. Kovacic played 46 games across all competitions, contributing to City’s fourth consecutive Premier League title. His importance was highlighted by his goal in City’s 2-0 win over Chelsea on Sunday.
In other moves, Kalvin Phillips was loaned out to Ipswich after a brief spell at West Ham last season, reducing City’s midfield options. Meanwhile, James McAtee, who returned from a loan at Sheffield United, impressed in pre-season, and Guardiola is keen to keep him in the squad, although he was an unused substitute against Chelsea.
The core of City’s midfield, including Kevin de Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, and Rodri, remains crucial, but adding more depth is essential. Gundogan’s return could provide that, especially with his versatility and quality. Additionally, City might consider pursuing Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace, who, despite a potentially hefty price tag, could offer valuable support to Rodri and has the potential to become one of the Premier League’s top midfielders.
With a midfield lineup featuring De Bruyne, Bernardo, Rodri, Foden, Gundogan, Kovacic, McAtee, and potentially Wharton, Guardiola would have an ideal blend of youth and experience to navigate the season ahead.
