Ilkay Gundogan has departed from Manchester City for the second time in three years, sealing a free transfer to Turkish champions Galatasaray. The move comes despite the midfielder’s public desire to remain at the club, a feeling he expressed in a farewell message to fans via the Manchester Evening News.
Gündoğan, who captained City to a historic treble in 2023 before a brief move to Barcelona, returned to the Etihad in August 2024. Despite a season in which he was a consistent presence on the field, the 34-year-old was left out of the starting lineup for the first three Premier League games this season.
In his heartfelt message, Gündoğan thanked the club, his teammates, and the fans for an “incredible” and “unforgettable” journey. He praised the club’s professionalism and ambition, noting that they honored a “gentleman’s agreement” to facilitate his departure.
“It’s time to pass on to the new generation and achieve even greater success!” Gündoğan wrote. “But on the other side I still feel very good and ready to play as many games as possible—that’s why I decided to move on.”
The German international revealed that his new destination is not just any club, but his favorite from childhood. “I get the opportunity to play again for a Champions League club—but not just any Champions League club—no, for my favorite club from childhood days!”
Gündoğan expressed his gratitude to Pep Guardiola, calling him “the best manager in the world.” He added that the lessons he learned from Guardiola could one day assist his own coaching career. The midfielder concluded by saying he will continue to watch every City game and hopes the club can return to the top of the Premier League.
Gündoğan, who won five Premier League titles with City, also hinted at a potential reunion in the Champions League, where Galatasaray and City could meet in the knockout rounds.