Ilkay Gundogan, the former Manchester City midfielder, has been officially unveiled as a Barcelona player after signing a new contract with the club. During the unveiling ceremony, Gundogan mentioned that his conversations with Barcelona legend Xavi played a significant role in his decision to join the club. Barcelona president Joan Laporta also revealed that Gundogan turned down bigger offers from other clubs to join Barcelona.
Gundogan, who spent seven successful years at Manchester City, winning five Premier League titles and leading the club to the Champions League final, has signed a two-year contract with Barcelona. There is an option to extend the contract for a third season, but it is unlikely that he will leave the club during that time, as Barcelona has included a release clause of £342 million.
Pep Guardiola, Gundogan’s former manager at Manchester City, expressed his desire for the midfielder to stay at the club. However, Gundogan’s conversations with Xavi ultimately convinced him to join Barcelona. Gundogan spoke about how Xavi’s ideas about how the team wants to play resonated with him, as it was similar to the philosophy he experienced under Guardiola. The German midfielder praised Xavi’s honesty and saw similarities between their personalities.
Gundogan also mentioned that informing Guardiola about his decision to leave Manchester City was one of the toughest calls he had to make. Throughout the past year, Gundogan has showcased his skills, particularly during City’s FA Cup triumph against Manchester United, where he scored two goals and was named the man of the match.
Barcelona is delighted to have secured Gundogan’s signature, as Laporta confirmed that other clubs had made significant offers to sign him. The president emphasized that Gundogan’s decision to choose Barcelona was based on the club’s prestige and history, despite receiving better financial offers elsewhere.
Gundogan’s arrival at Barcelona comes at a time when the club is facing financial difficulties. He joins fellow free agent signee Inigo Martinez as the club’s first two signings of the transfer window. Despite rumors of Neymar Jr making a sensational return to Barcelona and uncertainty surrounding Gavi’s future, the club has been relatively quiet in the transfer market so far.
In conclusion, Ilkay Gundogan’s decision to join Barcelona was influenced by his conversations with Xavi and his admiration for the club’s history and prestige. Barcelona is thrilled to have secured the midfielder’s services, and they hope he will make a significant impact on the team.
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