Galatasaray Sign Ilkay Gundogan from Manchester City on Free Transfer

Turkish champions Galatasaray have completed the signing of Ilkay Gundogan from Manchester City on a free transfer, both clubs confirmed on Tuesday.

The 34-year-old midfielder agreed a contract that runs until the end of the 2026/27 season, with no transfer fee involved.

“Manchester City will always hold a special place in my heart,” Gundogan said after sealing the move. “We have enjoyed so much success in our time together and there have been so many unforgettable moments, not least being captain for the Treble-winning season.

“To win the Premier League and FA Cup trophies meant so much to me, but to then be afforded the opportunity of lifting the Champions League trophy for this club for the first time, especially in Istanbul, will live with me forever.

“I have no doubts Manchester City will enjoy much more success in the future and I will certainly be watching on from afar as I continue my career in Turkey, a country that means ever such a lot to me.”

Born in Germany to Turkish parents, Gundogan was Pep Guardiola’s first signing in 2016. He made 358 appearances in two spells at City, scoring 65 goals, and won five Premier League titles and the 2022/23 Champions League.

After seven seasons in Manchester, Gundogan joined Barcelona on a free transfer in 2023, before returning to City in August 2024, where he played 33 Premier League matches last season as Guardiola’s side finished third.

City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, hailed his impact: “Ilkay Gundogan is a name synonymous with success at Manchester City. We will never forget his legacy here.”

Galatasaray, who will compete in the Champions League group stage, confirmed: “A contract has been signed with the player, valid until the end of the 2026/27 season.”

The 82-cap former Germany international, who also won the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund in 2012, will now link up with his former national teammate Leroy Sané in Turkey.

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