Turkish giants Galatasaray have completed the signing of Ilkay Gundogan from Manchester City on a free transfer, both clubs announced on Tuesday. The German midfielder has agreed to a contract that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2026–27 season.
Gundogan’s Emotional Farewell to Manchester City
The 34-year-old midfielder was thankful to Manchester City, a club he served two spells at with success. “Manchester City will always have a special place in my heart. We have achieved so much together, and there have been so many incredible moments,” Gundogan added in his farewell message.
He looked back on his contribution to the club’s record Treble-winning season, in which he led City to their inaugural Champions League title in 2023. “Winning the Premier League and FA Cup titles meant a lot to me, but to lift the Champions League trophy for this club for the first time, in Istanbul, will stay with me throughout my life,” he continued.
A Glittering Career at City
Gundogan signed with Manchester City in 2016 as Pep Guardiola’s first signing and played 358 times, netting 65 goals in all competitions. He was an integral part of City’s reign over English football with five Premier League crowns, two FA Cups, four League Cups, and the highly prized Champions League trophy in 2023.
Having departed on a free transfer to Barcelona in 2023, Gundogan returned to City in August 2024, featuring 33 times for City in the Premier League last term as Guardiola’s team was third-placed. His return brought experience and captaincy to the side but with young midfielders breaking through, a new chapter was written in Turkey.
A Homecoming of Sorts
Having been born in Germany to Turkish parents, Gundogan’s transfer to Galatasaray is more than a transfer it is a symbolic return home. “I will definitely be watching City from afar as I forge the next stage of my career in Turkey, a nation that holds so much for me,” he said.
Galatasaray, who will play in the UEFA Champions League this year, revealed that there was no transfer fee. “A deal has been inked with the player until the close of the 2026/27 season,” the Turkish champions stated in their official announcement.
Reaction From Manchester City
Manchester City director of football Hugo Viana praised Gundogan’s efforts for the club. “Ilkay Gundogan is a name that’s synonymous with success at Manchester City. We will never forget his legacy here,” said Viana.
His on-field and off-field leadership, especially in the treble season, have left him among the most impactful players of the Guardiola era.
What Lies Ahead at Galatasaray
At Galatasaray, Gundogan will join fellow former Germany teammate Leroy Sane, boosting the club’s midfield for their European campaign. Turkish champions Galatasaray view his signing as both an injection of experience and a link to their rich tradition of mixing global stars with domestic talent.
For Gundogan, not only does this transfer provide the return to his native roots, but it also the chance to keep playing at the top level within European football.
