Ilkay Gundogan has revealed that Pep Guardiola hoped the two would leave Manchester City together after he sealed his move to Barcelona.
The 32-year-old has signed a two-year deal, with the option of a further 12 months, at the Camp Nou. The midfielder’s new contract also contains a £340 million buy-out clause.
City wanted to keep Gundogan at the Etihad Stadium but did not stretch to offering a two-year contract. The German international was Guardiola’s first signing at City. Guardiola's contract also expires in 2025 and it was hinted that the two could depart at the same time.
During his seven years at City, Gundogan won the Premier League five times, in addition to two FA Cups (this season scoring the quickest goal in final history at 12 seconds), four League Cups and the Champions League.
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He also played a key role in his side’s battles against Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool. Twice, the Reds missed out on the Premier League title by a single point by Guardiola's side.
"For me, it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years," Gundogan said. "Manchester has been my home, and I have felt part of a very special family at City.
"I have been lucky to have experienced so many unforgettable moments in my time here, and to have been captain for this extra special season has been the greatest experience of my career.
"First, I would like to thank Pep. To have been able to play under and learn from him for so long has been something I will never forget.
"I think maybe Pep was hoping that we would come here to City together and leave together, but I know that he understands my decision. I am sure it helps that I’m going to his boyhood club. Hopefully we’ll have a reunion soon in a Champions League Final.
"I would also like to thank all my team-mates – past and present — who have all played such a special part in making my time here so amazing.
"Finally, I would like to thank the incredible City fans. They have supported me from the moment I arrived, and I owe them all so much for their support."
