Gündogan, emotional and very sincere in his farewell to FC Barcelona and all the culés

It's official! The talented 33-year-old German midfielder, İlkay Gündoğan, has left FC Barcelona, after just one season where he scored five goals and provided 14 assists in 51 appearances. What is his new football destination? An environment he is already familiar with and where he was a prominent figure, and from where he departed as one of the most beloved players: Manchester City, a team that didn't hesitate to seize this great market opportunity to have a player admired by Pep Guardiola.

Now, 'Gündo', who on several occasions showed a notable connection with the Barcelona fans and life in the Catalan city, after his departure was confirmed, didn't miss the chance to, through his 'X' profile, @IlkayGuendogan, send a nostalgic farewell message to the Blaugrana supporters. "Dear culers, after a year, it's time to say goodbye. I came here to face a new and exciting challenge, and I was prepared for it. I gave my all to fight for the team and the club in the best possible way in a tough season, and I was looking forward to helping my teammates in the new campaign," he began.

'Gündo' hinted at the possible reason for his unexpected departure

Subsequently, the Gelsenkirchen native revealed what could have been the main reason for his sudden exit, despite having a contract until 2025, also expressing his gratitude for his time as a player at Barcelona, highlighting his fulfillment of a dream. "Now I'm leaving in a tough situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a little less sad. Nevertheless, it has been a period filled with incredible experiences and ups and downs. I always wanted to play for Barça, and I am deeply grateful for a memory and an experience that I will cherish for a lifetime," he pointed out.

It's worth noting that, from FC Barcelona's perspective, the departure of the German midfielder apparently began to be considered not only for sporting reasons, as he has proven to be a top-level talent crucial in the final third of the field. This decision seemed to be more motivated by economic aspects. Regardless of what they could gain in a possible transfer to another club, it was crucial to highlight the savings in terms of wages that his departure would bring, as he was earning around 18.7 million euros gross (nine million net), making him the third highest-paid player in the Culé squad.

Dear culers,
after just one year it’s already time to say goodbye. I came here to face a new, exciting challenge, and I was ready for it. I have given everything to fight for the team and the club the best possible way in a difficult season and I was looking forward to helping my… pic.twitter.com/n9gAhbmpmz

— Ilkay Gündogan (@IlkayGuendogan) August 23, 2024

To conclude, echoing Gündoğan's message, he has once again shown his deep feelings towards Barcelona, expressing his best wishes for the club and the fans, predicting their swift return to the pinnacle of football. "I wish you all the best for the season and the future. The fans deserve to see this great club back among the best in the world," he concluded.