Ilkay Gundogan sends message to Barcelona fans after leaving for Man City

Ilkay Gundogan has sent out a message to Barcelona fans after returning to Manchester City after just one season with the Catalans.

Barcelona confirmed on Friday that an agreement has been reached for Gundogan to move on a free transfer and he admits it’s a tricky situation.

“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 teammates in the new campaign.

“Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad.

“Nevertheless, it’s been a time with incredible experiences and ups and downs – I always wanted to play at Barça, and I am very grateful for a memory and experience that I will remember for my life.

“I wish you the best for the season and for the future. The fans deserve to get this big club back to the world’s best.”

Gundogan’s departure is, in part, to help register new signing Dani Olmo. However, Barca still need more exits to make that happen and, as things stand, he remains unregistered and likely to miss tomorrow’s game against Athletic.