“Always a Blue” – Ilkay Gundogan sends emotional farewell message to Man City fans after sealing Barcelona transfer

Ilkay Gundogan has left Manchester City after seven years at the Etihad Stadium, joining Barcelona on a free transfer.

Ilkay Gundogan says he will always be a Blue after his free transfer to Barcelona was confirmed.

Gundogan has called time on his seven-year spell at City, leaving on a high after securing the treble this season. He turned down City’s offer of a one-year contract with the option of a second, with Barcelona offering more security for his young family.

The German will be sorely missed at City, especially after this season’s exploits follow last year’s brace to secure the Premier League title on the final day, and he will take some replacing in the squad. As Txiki Begiristain and the recruitment team plan to try and move on, Gundogan has penned an emotional letter to the club after deciding to leave that confirms a part of him will always be at City.

“For me it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years,” he 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 hundreds of 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 would also like to thank all my teammates – past and present – who have all played such a special part in making my time here so amazing. Furthermore 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.”

“This club made me realize all my dreams and I will forever be thankful for this opportunity. I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue.”