Ilkay Gundogan Sends Messages To Barcelona And Manchester City Fans After Completing Free Transfer

Ilkay Gundogan has joined Barcelona on a free transfer from Manchester City.

The 32-year-old captained City to a famous treble in his final season at the Etihad Stadium.

But with his contract expiring this summer, he decided that it was time for a new challenge after seven years in England.

Gundogan has signed a deal with Barcelona until June 2025. That contract includes a €400 million buyout clause.

Speaking to Barcelona fans in a Twitter video, Gundogan said on Monday: "Hola culers. I am very happy to sign with Barca, excited for this new journey and to join this beautiful club. See you soon. Forza Barca."

Gundogan also delivered a message to Man City supporters via a statement published on the club's official website.

It read: "For me it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years.

"Manchester has been my home and I have felt part of a very special family at City.

"I have been lucky to have experienced so many unforgettable moments in my time here and to have been captain for this extra special season has been the greatest experience of my career.

"First, I would like to thank Pep. To have been able to play under and learn from him for so long has been something I will never forget.

"I would also like to thank all my team-mates – past and present – who have all played such a special part in making my time here so amazing.

"Finally, I would like to thank the incredible City fans. They have supported me from the moment I arrived, and I owe them all so much for their support.

"This club made me realise all my dreams and I will forever be thankful for this opportunity.

"I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue."

Gundogan won 14 trophies with City, including five Premier League titles.

He had previously won the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup with Borussia Dortmund in Germany.

Ilkay Gundogan scored 60 goals and assisted 40 more in 304 games for Manchester City

IMAGO/Sportsphoto/Will Palmer