Gundogan’s Departure Helps Barcelona Financially
Ilkay Gundogan has admitted that his departure from Barcelona to Manchester City was partly motivated by a desire to help the Catalan club financially. The midfielder’s return to City was confirmed on Friday, bringing his one-year stint at Barcelona to an end.
lkay Gundogan has admitted he is happy his free transfer to Manchester City will help Barcelona financially.
The midfielder’s return to the Etihad Stadium was confirmed on Friday, bringing an early end to his one-year loan spell in Catalonia.
Barcelona’s financial woes have meant they have been unable to sign new La Liga player Dani Olmo, but the shift in Gundogan’s wages means they should now have enough flexibility to do so.
Gundogan alluded to this in a farewell statement to Barcelona fans on social media.
“Dear culers, after just one year it’s already time to say goodbye,” Gundogan said.
“I came here to face a new, exciting challenge, and I was ready for it. I have given everything to fight for the team and the club the best possible way in a difficult season and I was looking forward to helping my teammates in the new campaign.
“Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad.
“Nevertheless, it’s been a time with incredible experiences and ups and downs – I always wanted to play at Barça, and I am very grateful for a memory and experience that I will remember for my life. I wish you the best for the season and for the future. The fans deserve to get this big club back to the world’s best.
“Visca el Barça! Best wishes, Ilkay.”
Gundogan is said to have handed in a transfer request last weekend, and a return to City quickly developed after Pep Guardiola reached out to the 33-year-old.
Though there was interest from clubs all over the world, including Saudi Arabia, Gundogan eventually agreed to a reunion with City.
