ISTANBUL, Turkey — German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has signed for Turkish champions Galatasaray on a free transfer from Manchester City, in a deal announced by both clubs on Tuesday. The 34-year-old has agreed to a contract that will keep him with the club until the end of the 2026-27 season.
A Career Defined by Success
Gundogan, who was born in Germany to Turkish parents, has had a storied career marked by trophies. He was the first signing for coach Pep Guardiola at Manchester City in 2016 and went on to spend seven years with the English club. During his time there, he won the Premier League five times and the Champions League in the 2022-23 season.
After a brief spell at Barcelona in 2023, he returned to Manchester City in August 2024, where he made 33 appearances in the Premier League. He also won the Bundesliga title with Borussia Dortmund in 2012.
A Return to His Roots
The move to Galatasaray holds a special significance for Gundogan, given his Turkish heritage. The deal was completed as a free transfer, with Galatasaray having qualified for the Champions League. In Turkey, he will be reunited with his former German national teammate Leroy Sane. The 82-times capped former German international and captain is set to bring a wealth of experience and championship pedigree to the Turkish side.
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