Ilkay Gundogan could soon be packing his bags again — this time possibly heading to Istanbul. Manchester City have reportedly decided they won’t stand in his way if a summer move to Galatasaray materializes.
The veteran midfielder, who returned to the Etihad just last season after a brief spell at Barcelona, may soon be on the move once more.
Despite making over 50 appearances for City in all competitions last season, Gundogan’s future looks increasingly uncertain heading into the new campaign.
At 34, he’s no stranger to change, and this time it could be a move that brings him closer to his family roots.
The German international’s parents are from Turkey, and a transfer to the Turkish Super Lig champions seems to fit both the emotional and footballing puzzle.
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Why Gundogan could leave Man City this summer?
City are undergoing a quiet but clear midfield shake-up. Kevin De Bruyne has already left for Napoli, and new faces like Nico Gonzalez and Tijjani Reijnders have joined the mix.
Add Rodri’s return from injury, plus Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes waiting in the wings, and the midfield suddenly looks as crowded as a penalty box in stoppage time.
That might explain why Gundogan’s minutes could be limited if he stays. City have reportedly told the player he can leave this summer.
As per The Guardian, the former Premier League champions are even willing to let him go on a free transfer after his one year contract extension activated at the end of last season.
The midfielder isn’t rushing into anything, but he did drop a hint about his future: “There seems to be a trend at the moment in football where people are saying: ‘This player is too old,’ or: ‘Another one cannot run any more.’ But we always have had this in football… You need experienced players on the pitch.”
Galatasaray are said to be very interested, and for Gundogan, it may be the perfect final chapter. A move that’s both tactical and nostalgic.
