According to a recent report from renowned soccer journalist Romano, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed strong interest in Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gündoğan and is hoping that the German international will return to City. The news has undoubtedly caused a lot of concern in the soccer world as Gündoğan just moved to Barcelona on a free transfer from Manchester City before the end of last season.
Gündoğan joined Barcelona as a free agent in the summer of 2023, bringing new energy and experience to the team. He showed great competitive form in the 23/24 season, making 51 appearances for Barcelona in all competitions, scoring five goals and contributing 14 assists, making him an integral part of the team's midfield. However, with FC Barcelona under financial pressure and needing to make room for other players to register, Gündoğan's future is starting to become uncertain.
Barcelona, for their part, are reportedly interested in letting Gündoğan leave the club this summer in order to improve the club's financial situation. And that's when Pep Guardiola, the manager of Gündoğan's old club Manchester City, extended an olive branch to him to return to the club. This news is certainly a big choice for Gündoğan as he will need to weigh up his future with two top clubs.
According to Romano, City and Gündoğan have made initial contact yesterday, which further increases the possibility of Gündoğan's return to City. Pep Guardiola is very appreciative of Gündoğan's ability and experience, and he believes that Gündoğan's return will be able to bring greater stability and creativity to City's midfield.
For Gündogan personally, he will also be facing an important decision. A return to Manchester City would mean that he would be working with a familiar coach and teammates and have the chance to fight for the Premier League title once again. However, staying at Barcelona would also be a good option as he has built a good relationship there and has become an important part of the team.
Whatever decision Gündoğan finally makes, he will be the center of attention in the transfer market. We expect more news to come in the coming days revealing where the German midfielder will end up.
