Revealed: Man City star’s initiative to help football in Balikesir

Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan has completed the latest stage of his initiative develop football in Balikesir, Western Turkey.

Gundogan has sent training balls signed with his signature to amateur football club Dursunbey Belediyespor.

Dursunbey club president Yusuf Tarhan was quoted by Turkish-Football as saying: “Ilkay Gundogan has provided us with training balls which he personally signed. 

“We want to thank Gundogan who his support and continuing efforts to develop football in this region.” 

Gundogan is also financing the construction of a stadium in the Dursunbey district of Balıkesir in Turkey which will be used by Dursunbey FC.

The Dortmund star was born in Germany but his family originate from Dursunbey and his father İrfan – who also happens to be his agent – has been closely involved in the construction of the sporting venue.

The stadium is named after Gundogan and he is expected to visit the grounds over the summer break.

Gundogan is one of several Premier League players born in Germany but of Turkish origin.

Arsenal star Mesut Ozil, Liverpool’s Emre Can and West Ham loanee Gokhan Tore are also part of the Turkish community in Germany.