Two years ago, he lifted the coveted Champions League trophy in Istanbul as captain to complete Manchester City’s treble. Now, Ilkay Gündogan, could he head back to Turkey to suit up for Fenerbache or Galatassary?
On Saturday, Barcelona left the German midfielder out of the starting lineup in Barcelona’s La Liga opener. The omission of the 33-year-old came off some dubiety about the player’s future at Barcelona. Gundogan allegedly communicated his wishes to leave the club by the end of this summer window. His contract expires at the end of this season.
Although the news shocked head coach Hansi Flick, the German boss thought he could persuade Gundogan to stay.
”I know him very well,” Flick said after Saturday’s match. “I appreciate the player and the person he is. We spoke about everything, but it will stay between us, it’s not for you to know. I have a feeling he will stay.”
What is Gundogan’s likeliest destination?
News of Gundogan’s potential exit spread fast. His former club, Manchester City, immediately expressed interest. The midfielder left the Citizens last season as a free agent to sign for the Blaugrana. He subsequently became Barca’s third-highest earner behind Lewandowski and De Jong at nearly $21 million per season.
Gundogan enjoyed a productive debut season at Camp Nou, scoring 14 and assisting 5 in 51 matches. But he angered the higher-ups last term when he criticized the team’s mentality after a Clasico loss. Barcelona also signed Spanish Euro champion and Golden Boot winner Dani Olmo over the summer, effectively taking Gundogan’s role. Gundogan’s departure opens up a registration spot for the addition of Olmo.
Gundogan to Fenerbahce?
City boss Pep Guardiola is happy to reunite with Gundogan and remove him from Barcelona’s books, as are other clubs in Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. However, the player’s Turkish descent and his decision on Monday to retire from the German national team hint at a Super Ligue entrance.
Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho is a huge admirer, willing to go to great lengths to add the 33-year-old to his squad. Naturally, Galatasary wants to get involved and scupper any negotiations. The Saudi and Qatari leagues can compete to woo the midfielder on a lavish salary, surpassing his Barca wages.
One of the sticking points of any Gundogan deal is whether Barcelona demands a transfer fee.
If Gundogan had extended his contract with City after the 2022/23 season, he’d be in his last season in Manchester anyway. A move to Turkey, one of Gundogan’s favorite vacation spots, sounds like a fresh start even if a return to Manchester remains preferred.
Where would you like Ilkay Gundogan to play next?
