admin Ilkay Gundogan has explained his reasons for choosing Barcelona after ending his seven-year spell at Manchester City.
Ilkay Gundogan says he would only have left Manchester City for one club as he explained his reasons for joining Barcelona on a free transfer.
Gündogan has signed a two-year deal with Barcelona with an option for a third year as a substitute after a glorious seven years at City. The Blues wanted him to stay but Barcelona’s offer was longer: Gündogan left with the club’s blessing just two weeks after lifting the Champions League trophy in Istanbul.
Gundogan detailed his thoughts on the farewell, saying that winning the treble was the perfect farewell and explaining why he chose Barcelona after his time at Manchester to continue his career.
Gundogan was Pep Guardiola’s first signing of 2016 and has a close relationship with the manager, but he told the Players’ Tribune his boss understands his decision, saying it could be easier for him as Barcelona are his next destination.
“I can only imagine what the fans thought when this guy with the funny name came to Manchester for too much money and was limping on crutches at the opening,” said Gundogan.
“Well, all I can say is: I got here limping, but I’m leaving feeling like I’m flying in the clouds. After the hat-trick and after the spectacular save in the rain in Manchester, how could it be?” So does it work better?
What else could you achieve? How can you write something more perfect?”And the answer was: You couldn’t.”Gundogan opens up about his decision to join Barcelona, saying it has always been his dream to play for Camp Nou and he hopes his new club can face City in the Champions League final.”I think Pep was hoping we’d come and go to City together, but I know he understands my decision,” Gundogan admitted.
“I’m sure going to his childhood club will help me. I hope we’ll see each other again soon in the Champions League final.”“If I had to change, there is only one club in the world that makes sense. It was Barcelona or nothing. Ever since I was little, I’ve dreamed of wearing this jersey one day.”
“I’m convinced I have a few more years ahead of me at the highest level and I just want to help Barcelona get back to where it deserves to be. It will be a reunion with my old friend Lewa [Robert Lewandowski] and I.” I’m happy to be playing with another manager who I’ve admired for a long time. When Xavi and I talked about the project, it just felt so natural. I see so many similarities between us as characters and our take on the game.“I know there will be a lot of pressure in Barcelona.
But I like the pressure. I love getting out of my comfort zone. I wasn’t looking for an easy landing. I was looking for a new challenge. This will be discussed in the next chapter.I can’t wait to play in the Barcelona shirt.
