Officially Joining Barcelona, Ilkay Gundogan: Hard To Leave Manchester City

Barcelona player, Ilkay Gundogan. (Photo: Twitter.com/@FCBarcelona)

JAKARTA - Ilkay Gundogan finally chose Barcelona as a new club after not continuing his contract with Manchester City. For Gundogan, the tough moment he had to go through was having to say goodbye to the people in the team at the Etihad Stadium.

Gundogan officially signed a contract with Barcelona for two years. That means he will become a resident of Camp Nou, at least until 2025.

However, the contract also states that Gundogan has the option of extending his one-year contract with a release clause of 400 million euros (Rp 6.54 trillion).

Gundogan's decision to become part of the Blaugrana clearly had to make him leave many memories with City, including the moment of winning 14 trophies. During his time as part of The Citizens, Gundogan won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, and one Champions League.

He even held the armband of the Man City squad during a treble winner in the 2022/2023 season.

All these memories and moments must be left by Gundogan when he steps to Camp Nou. For him, separation from City is not an easy thing, but on the other hand he is still hungry for new challenges.

"It's a bitter day. Goodbye is never easy, but it's more difficult with this team (Manchester City)," Gundogan told Players' Tribune quoted on Tuesday, June 27.

"When I had to tell my teammates that I was going out in our group chats, I was very emotional. Really I would miss all of them, but I'm happy to say I'm leaving here as a champion, and I have nothing but love for the club in my heart. How many footballers can say goodbye as captain of the treble team?" he continued emotionally.

"It's amazing what we've accomplished. Five Premier League titles in seven years I've been here. Two FA Cups. Champions League. Treble. But it's just a trophy. The thing I remember the most is the feeling in the squad, especially this season. I've never experienced anything like this in football," recalled Gundogan about his togetherness with the team.

During his time with City, Gundogan has made 304 appearances by contributing 60 goals and 40 assists in all competitions. Gundogan's departure clearly made The Citizens lose, but they also have to keep moving quickly to get a commensurate replacement immediately and be able to fill the vacant position of the 32-year-old player.