Manchester City Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan Set for Galatasaray Move

Background to the move

Manchester City have reshaped their midfield over the past nine months with the arrivals of Tijjani Reijnders and Nico Gonzalez. The restructuring left Gundogan facing reduced opportunities and opened the door to a potential departure.

Galatasaray have been strongly linked with the former Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund man throughout August. While initial speculation suggested a possible package deal involving Gundogan, Ederson, and Manuel Akanji, the Turkish giants have now focused solely on securing Gundogan’s services.

Deal details

According to Haber Sarikirmizi, relayed via Sport Witness, Gundogan will land in Istanbul on Tuesday afternoon aboard Galatasaray vice president Abdullah Kavukcu’s private jet. The aircraft is due to depart the UK in the morning and arrive at 12pm local time with the midfielder onboard.

It is claimed Gundogan has agreed a contract worth €7 million per year plus bonuses. While Manchester City have confirmed their willingness to let him leave, the transfer fee remains undisclosed.

Significance for both clubs

For Galatasaray, Gundogan’s signing represents one of their marquee summer additions, boosting a squad with ambitions in both domestic and European competition. His leadership and experience are expected to make an immediate impact.

For Manchester City, Gundogan’s exit marks the end of a decorated chapter. The German played a pivotal role in multiple Premier League titles and the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League triumph in 2023. Guardiola often leaned on him in decisive moments, making his departure as much an emotional adjustment as a tactical one.

Personal motivations

Beyond the professional appeal, the move to Istanbul also carries personal meaning for Gundogan. With strong family ties to Turkey, the midfielder is expected to embrace the opportunity to play for one of the country’s biggest clubs as he approaches the twilight of his career.

FAQs

• Where is Gundogan moving? He is set to complete a permanent move to Turkish giants Galatasaray.
• How much will he earn? Reports indicate a salary of €7 million plus bonuses.
• Why is he leaving City? Manchester City’s midfield restructuring and Gundogan’s desire for a new challenge influenced the decision.
• Was a transfer fee disclosed? No, the transfer fee agreed between City and Galatasaray has not been revealed.
• How significant was Gundogan at City? He played a key role in City’s domestic dominance and their first Champions League title, making him one of Guardiola’s most trusted players.

Conclusion

Ilkay Gundogan’s imminent switch to Galatasaray closes another successful chapter at Manchester City. His leadership and decisive performances will be missed at the Etihad, but for the player, the move offers both a personal homecoming and a chance to remain a central figure on a big stage. For Galatasaray, it represents a major coup as they continue to strengthen for European competition.