Galatasaray sign Gundogan from Man City on free transfer

ISTANBUL, SEPT 3: German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan on Tuesday signed for Galatasaray from Manchester City on a free transfer, both teams announced.

The 34-year-old has agreed a deal until the end of the 2026-27 season with the Turkish champions.

"Manchester City will always hold a special place in my heart," said Gundogan, who played 358 games in two spells at City, scoring 65 goals.

"We have enjoyed so much success in our time together and there have been so many unforgettable moments, not least being captain for the Treble-winning season.

"To win the Premier League and FA Cup trophies meant so much to me, but to then be afforded the opportunity of lifting the Champions League trophy for this club for the first time, especially in Istanbul, will live with me forever.

"I have no doubts Manchester City will enjoy much more success in the future and I will certainly be watching on from afar as I continue my career in Turkey, a country that means ever such a lot to me."

Gundogan, who was born in Germany to Turkish parents, was Pep Guardiola's first signing for City in 2016 and spent seven years there before joining Barcelona on a free transfer in 2023.    �"AFP