Ilkay Gündoğan has officially called time on his Manchester City career for the second time, sealing a move to Galatasaray after holding decisive talks with Pep Guardiola on transfer deadline day.
It was a dramatic final 24 hours at the Etihad Stadium, with City completing the signing of Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, allowing Ederson to join Fenerbahce, and sanctioning a late loan exit for Manuel Akanji to Inter Milan. Among those headline moves, the departure of former captain Gündoğan emerged as one of the most significant.
Gündoğan’s Conversation with Guardiola
The 34-year-old midfielder met with Guardiola on Monday to discuss his role for the season ahead. Sources close to the club reveal that the meeting was cordial, with Guardiola making it clear that Gündoğan could remain at City but would have to settle for a reduced role in the squad.
After careful consideration, Gündoğan decided the time was right to move on. A two-year deal with Galatasaray, including an option for a third, was quickly agreed, and the German international is expected to travel to Turkey to finalise his transfer.
Why Galatasaray?
The move carries personal significance for Gündoğan, who has long expressed a desire to play in Turkey due to his family roots. Galatasaray had shown interest earlier in the summer, but at that time Gündoğan opted to fight for his place in Manchester. This time, however, the opportunity to take on a key role in Istanbul proved too good to turn down.
Unlike Ederson, who City were actively looking to move on, Gündoğan’s exit was more of a mutual understanding. City respected his wishes, while the player embraced the chance to fulfill a career-long ambition.
Champions League Deadline Pressure
For Galatasaray, the timing of the transfer is crucial. Although the Turkish transfer window remains open for another week, UEFA’s Champions League registration deadline falls at midnight on Tuesday. The club is eager to register Gündoğan in time, as he could be a decisive figure in their European campaign.
In a twist of fate, Galatasaray are set to face Manchester City in the final game of the Champions League League Phase, meaning Gündoğan could soon return to the Etihad — this time wearing the red and yellow of his new club.
