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By Emmanuel Adeleke
Manchester City captain, Ilkay Gundogan, has left the club to join Barcelona following the expiration of his contract.
Gundogan left Etihad Stadium on the back of the club’s greatest season, lifting the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League trophies within the space of one month.
During his time at Manchester City, the German midfielder played a key role in what has proved to be the most successful period in the club’s history, going on to make 304 appearances across all competitions and scoring 60 goals.
He spent seven years at the club after joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2016.
Manchester City’s manager, Pep Guardiola had publicly expressed his desire to extend Gundogan’s stay at the Etihad.
Gundogan was in talks with City over a new deal before his contract expires at the end of this week.
However, the length of the deal City offered the 32-year-old is one year plus an option of a further 12 months, which Gundogan rejected. He has now penned a two-year contract, also including a 12-month option, with LaLiga champions Barcelona.
Speaking, Gundogan said it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years.
“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,” he said.