Manchester Metropolis’s director of soccer Txiki Begiristain paid tribute to the “inspirational” Ilkay Gundogan after the midfielder’s long-expected free switch to Barcelona was confirmed.
The treble-winning captain turned down the prospect to remain at Metropolis and is ready to signal with Barca, who’ve set his buyout clause at 400million euros (£342m), till 2025 following the expiration of his present contract.
Gundogan, who was supervisor Pep Guardiola’s first signing in July 2016, signed off in fashion by lifting the Champions League earlier this month after victory over Inter Milan in his 304th and remaining look.
304 appearances 60 targets 40 assists 5 Premier Leagues 1 UCL 2 FA Cups 4 EFL Cups 2 Neighborhood Shields pic.twitter.com/o81N1urk3y
— Manchester Metropolis (@ManCity) June 26, 2023
“Ilkay has been a beautiful servant for Manchester Metropolis, and he leaves our membership on a really particular excessive having captained us to a historic treble,” mentioned Begiristain.
“He has performed an enormous half within the successes we now have loved in latest seasons and Ilkay’s intelligence, management and dedication to the membership – each on and off the sphere – has been an inspiration to everybody.
“Ilkay has actually cemented his place within the historical past of Manchester Metropolis and all of us want him nicely within the subsequent chapter of his profession.”
Throughout his seven years at Metropolis Gundogan gained the Premier League 5 occasions, along with two FA Cups – this season scoring the quickest purpose in remaining historical past at 12 seconds – 4 League Cups and the Champions League.
“I’ve been fortunate to have skilled so many unforgettable moments in my time right here and to have been captain for this extra-special season has been the best expertise of my profession,” mentioned the previous Germany worldwide.
“First, I wish to thank Pep. To have been in a position to play underneath and be taught from him for thus lengthy has been one thing I’ll always remember.
After 7 years a beautiful time ends. You made me understand all my desires. I’ll carry you ceaselessly in my coronary heart. As soon as a blue, all the time a blue! Thanks @ManCity!
