İlkay Gündoğan has officially left Manchester City to join Galatasaray on a free transfer, ending his second stint with the Premier League champions. The 34-year-old midfielder has signed a contract with the Turkish giants that runs until the end of the 2026-27 season.
The move makes Gündoğan Galatasaray’s latest high-profile addition of the summer, following the arrivals of Victor Osimhen and Leroy Sané. The club acted quickly to finalize the deal before the Turkish transfer window closes on September 12, ensuring the midfielder can be registered for the UEFA Champions League.
Gündoğan’s Manchester City Legacy
Gündoğan was Pep Guardiola’s first signing at Manchester City when he arrived from Borussia Dortmund in 2016. Over two spells with the club, he enjoyed immense success, establishing himself as a key figure in City’s dominance of English football.
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Won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, and the Champions League (2023).
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Captained City to a historic treble in 2023.
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Scored twice on the final day of the 2021-22 season against Aston Villa, helping City seal the Premier League title in dramatic fashion.
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Made over 300 appearances for City across his two spells.
After a year with Barcelona in 2023-24, Gündoğan returned to Manchester last summer. However, competition for places limited his opportunities, with new arrivals Tijjani Reijnders and Nico González pushing him down the pecking order. He did not feature in any of City’s opening league matches this season.
Gündogan on his Departure from Man City
“Manchester City will always hold a special place in my heart,” Gündogan said in a statement.
“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 Türkiye, a country that means ever such a lot to me.”
Why Galatasaray?
For Gündoğan, the move to Istanbul represents both a new challenge and a return to his family roots. Born in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, to Turkish parents, he now has the opportunity to play in Turkey for the first time in his career.
Galatasaray’s ambition to strengthen their squad for domestic dominance and European competition played a decisive role in attracting the experienced midfielder. His leadership and versatility in midfield are expected to provide immediate impact as the club targets another Süper Lig title and a strong Champions League run.
Looking Ahead
At 34, Gündoğan remains highly respected for his vision, composure, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments. His arrival gives Galatasaray both quality and experience, boosting their chances of competing with Europe’s elite.
For Manchester City, his departure marks another step in Guardiola’s squad rebuild, with the club already bringing in nine new players since January.
