The future of Ilkay Gundogan remains something of a mystery at Manchester City.
At the end of June, the German was set to become a free agent until he managed to trigger a one-year extension by reaching a certain amount of appearances.
The Manchester City No.19 then said he expected that development to keep him at the Etihad Stadium, saying: “Nobody has said anything to me so far! My contract got extended another year so obviously that’s what I expect right now.”
However, a twist occurred when esteemed Turkish journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu claimed that Galatasaray are pushing to sign Gundogan, and he is keen on a move to Istanbul.
Now, Ilkay Gundogan has been speaking to the Manchester Evening News as Manchester City prepare to embark on the FIFA Club World Cup, offering a strong hint as to where his future lies.
New Ilkay Gundogan comments suggest he is firmly focused on Manchester City amidst Galatasaray rumours
Galatasaray have already signed Leroy Sane this summer, so the Turkish giants mean business.
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However, the Super Lig outfit may have to move on from Gundogan.
When asked about the arrivals of Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Ait-Nouri, the 34-year-old said he feels excited to play alongside them, and also spoke about the upcoming 2025/26 campaign, providing a clear signal that he is only focused on Manchester City right now.
Gundogan revealed: “They’re really exciting additions. I’m looking forward to playing with them.
“We know we didn’t meet our usual standards last season but that’s in the past. This is a new season and we’re very motivated and excited to start the right way.”
Gundo magic 🪄 pic.twitter.com/NLuUVnXPk3
— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 18, 2025
Of course, anything could happen this summer with Galatasaray still eager to sign Gundogan, but these quotes suggest he fully intends on seeing out the final year of his contract.
Galatasaray move seems likely if Manchester City do decide to force Ilkay Gundogan out
Manchester City News understand Gundogan does hope to star for Galatasaray before he retires, as he is believed to be a huge fan of the Turkish giants, who play in the homeland of his parents.
Therefore, if Pep Guardiola openly tells the man born in Gelsenkirchen that he should depart this summer, a move to the Rams Park seems his likeliest destination.