The Ilkay Gundogan transfer to Galatasaray has officially been confirmed, with the Turkish champions completing the signing of the experienced German midfielder from Manchester City on a free deal. Gundogan, 34, agreed a contract until the end of the 2026/27 season, bringing an end to his decorated spell in English football. The move marks a homecoming for Gundogan, who has Turkish heritage and has long been linked with Galatasaray. His arrival is seen as a major boost for the club ahead of their Champions League campaign, while also signaling a new chapter in his illustrious career.
The Ilkay Gundogan transfer to Galatasaray is not just another signing but one of the standout moves of the summer window. After years of success with Manchester City, including captaining the side to a historic Treble, Gundogan now brings his leadership, technical brilliance, and winning mentality to the Turkish Super Lig. For Galatasaray, securing a player of his caliber on a free transfer underlines their ambition to dominate domestically and compete strongly in Europe, while for Gundogan, it represents both a personal and professional homecoming.
Ilkay Gundogan Transfer Overview
- Player Name: Ilkay Gundogan
- Age: 34
- Nationality: German (Turkish heritage)
- Position: Midfielder
- Former Club: Manchester City
- New Club: Galatasaray
- Transfer Type: Free Transfer
- Contract Duration: Until end of 2026/27 season
- Total Appearances for City: 358 (all competitions, both spells)
- Total Goals for City: 65
- Major Honors at City: 5 Premier League titles, 1 Champions League, 2 FA Cups, multiple League Cups
- Previous Clubs: Bochum, Nuremberg, Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona
- International Caps: 82 (Germany)
Turkish champions Galatasaray have officially completed the signing of experienced midfielder Ilkay Gundogan from Manchester City on a free transfer. The 34-year-old German international, who has Turkish roots, has signed a deal until the end of the 2026/27 season. The Ilkay Gundogan transfer to Galatasaray was finalized before the Turkish transfer window deadline, which remains open until 12 September.
For Galatasaray, this move represents the addition of a world-class midfielder with leadership experience and an extensive record of success in Europe. Gundogan, who previously lifted the Champions League in Istanbul with City in 2023, now returns to the Turkish capital to begin a new chapter in his career.
Gundogan’s Emotional Farewell to Manchester City
Speaking after sealing the Ilkay Gundogan transfer to Galatasaray, the midfielder expressed deep gratitude to his former club. He said:
“Manchester City will always hold a special place in my heart. 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.”
Gundogan highlighted how special it was to lift the Champions League trophy for City in Istanbul, an achievement that he described as one of the greatest moments of his career. He added that while he now moves to Turkey, he will always remain a supporter of Manchester City and believes the club will enjoy even greater success in the years ahead.
Career with Manchester City
Ilkay Gundogan first joined Manchester City in 2016 from Borussia Dortmund, becoming Pep Guardiola’s first signing. Over two spells at the club, he went on to make 358 appearances and scored 65 goals. His impact extended beyond statistics, as he became known for producing decisive performances in crucial matches.
Some of Gundogan’s iconic moments include his dramatic brace against Aston Villa in 2022 that sealed the Premier League title and his stunning volley in the 2023 FA Cup final against Manchester United. In total, he won five Premier League titles, the 2022/23 Champions League, and several domestic cups, cementing his status as one of City’s greatest modern midfielders.
After leaving City on a free transfer to join Barcelona in 2023, Gundogan returned to Manchester for the 2024/25 season, making 33 Premier League appearances as Guardiola’s side finished third. However, with younger talents like Tijjani Reijnders and Nico Gonzalez emerging, City’s midfield direction shifted, paving the way for his exit.
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Galatasaray’s Ambition with Gundogan
The Ilkay Gundogan transfer to Galatasaray is not only sentimental but also strategic. The midfielder’s Turkish heritage and childhood support for Galatasaray make the move emotionally significant. The club announced the signing with great pride, highlighting Gundogan’s experience and leadership qualities as crucial for their domestic and European campaigns.
Gundogan’s arrival comes as Galatasaray prepares for the Champions League group stage. His presence will add valuable experience in high-pressure matches and strengthen a midfield that already includes top talents. The club sees Gundogan as a player who can mentor younger squad members while still performing at the highest level.
Manchester City’s sporting director Hugo Viana paid tribute to Gundogan, saying:
“Ilkay Gundogan is a name synonymous with success at Manchester City. He brought trophy upon trophy back to the Etihad and no one will ever forget the huge role he played in those successes.”
City acknowledged not just Gundogan’s achievements but also his qualities as a leader and person, describing him as humble, intelligent, and selfless. The club made it clear that Gundogan’s legacy is secure and that he will always be welcomed back at the Etihad.
Legacy and Future in Turkey
The Ilkay Gundogan transfer to Galatasaray closes the chapter on his Manchester City career but opens an exciting new one in Turkey. His signing is seen as a symbolic homecoming, given his Turkish background and lifelong connection to Galatasaray.
For Galatasaray fans, Gundogan represents more than just a top-class signing; he embodies a blend of heritage, loyalty, and world-class quality. The midfielder is expected to play a key role in the club’s pursuit of domestic dominance and European progress.
With his contract running until 2027, Gundogan will likely spend the final years of his career at the club he once admired as a child. Supporters will look forward to seeing him don the famous red and yellow shirt, leading Galatasaray both in Turkey and on the European stage.
FAQs :
Q1: What type of transfer was Ilkay Gundogan’s move to Galatasaray?
It was a free transfer from Manchester City.
Q2: How long is Ilkay Gundogan’s contract with Galatasaray?
He has signed a contract until the end of the 2026/27 season.
Q3: What trophies did Gundogan win with Manchester City?
He won five Premier League titles, one Champions League, two FA Cups, and multiple League Cups.
Q4: Why did Gundogan leave Manchester City?
City opted for a younger midfield rebuild, and Gundogan wanted a new challenge in Turkey, where he has strong personal roots.
Q5: Will Gundogan play in the Champions League with Galatasaray?
Yes, Galatasaray confirmed he will be part of their Champions League squad.