Veteran German midfielder İlkay Gündoğan is reportedly making significant strides towards an exit from Manchester City, with a potential switch to Turkish giants Galatasaray now appearing increasingly likely. Recent reports suggest a crucial breakthrough in contract negotiations, bringing the 34-year-old closer to a move to Istanbul.
Gündoğan made an emotional return to the Premier League just last year, following a single season with FC Barcelona in La Liga, a stint that saw him fail to secure any major silverware.
This trophy drought unfortunately extended into his 2024/25 campaign with Manchester City, where, somewhat unexpectedly, he accumulated 50 appearances across various competitions, contributing 10 goals and assists.
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Despite his consistent involvement, Gündoğan’s playing time at City has become increasingly competitive. The midfield already boasts talents like Kevin De Bruyne, James McAtee, Mateo Kovačić, and Rodri, with new January signings Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders further intensifying the competition for minutes.
This crowded midfield landscape appears to be a key factor in Gündoğan’s reported desire for a fresh challenge.
In a significant development reported by French newspaper L’Equipe, contract negotiations between Gündoğan’s representatives and Galatasaray have reportedly culminated in an agreement on the player’s side. However, L’Equipe also notes that a complete transfer is not yet sealed, as Gündoğan has yet to hold discussions with Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk, who is currently preoccupied with Cimbom’s participation in the Club World Cup.
News of this potential agreement comes just days after earlier reports indicated that Manchester City might be inclined to retain the German, valuing his experience within the squad. However, manager Pep Guardiola’s firm stance on streamlining the squad to ensure consistent game time for existing options seems to have pushed the issue. Alternatively, the opportunity to join a club of Galatasaray’s prestige at this stage of his career, potentially offering a prominent role and Champions League football, may prove too compelling to decline.
For Manchester City, Gündoğan’s departure would not necessitate a direct replacement, aligning with their goal of trimming the first-team numbers. There is even speculation that the club might consider releasing the player from his contract as a gesture of respect for his considerable contributions across two separate spells at the Etihad Stadium. If finalized, this move would undoubtedly be a significant acquisition for Galatasaray, adding a player of immense quality, experience, and leadership to their ranks.
