A Homecoming Steeped in Sentiment and Success
On 2 September 2025, former Manchester City captain İlkay Gündoğan officially completed a free transfer to Galatasaray, signing a two-year deal through the 2026–27 season—with an annual net salary of €4.5 million.
GALATASARAY, Istanbul – It’s not every day that professional footballers get to play for the club they dreamt about in their youth. Yet that’s exactly what happened when İlkay Gündoğan, the decorated German midfielder of Turkish heritage, boarded a plane from Manchester to Istanbul—and into the embrace of a waiting crowd at the airport.
The Journey: From Dortmund to City, and Now Istanbul
- Manchester City Legacy: Gündoğan made 358 appearances across two spells at City, netting 65 goals, providing 47 assists, and lifting 14 trophies—highlighted by captaining the club to a historic treble in 2022–23 (Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League).
- Returning to Roots: Growing up in Germany to Turkish parents, Gündoğan has always carried a love for Turkish football. Now, at age 34–35, he’s come home to play for Galatasaray—a club he calls his “childhood team.”
The Deal: Signed, Sealed, and Celebrated
Negotiations began as early as May or June 2025 and moved quickly following a recent meeting with coach Okan Buruk—culminating in a contract officially signed on 2 September. The agreement includes a two-year contract with a €4.5 million net salary per season and potential performance bonuses.
A Hero’s Send-Off and a Promising Arrival
At Manchester City, Gündoğan left behind a legacy defined by leadership and achievement. He bid farewell with a heartfelt message of gratitude, recalling the unforgettable moment of lifting the Champions League trophy in Istanbul and pledging continued support from afar.
Arriving in Istanbul, he was greeted by exuberant Galatasaray fans and club officials. Speaking at the airport, Gündoğan expressed pride and excitement, stating: “I’m very happy. It’s a proud day for me and my family… Hopefully, we’ll adapt quickly, meet our teammates, and play some fun football.”
What This Transfer Means for All Parties
- For Manchester City: The move helps streamline their squad and reduce wage obligations, especially with Gündoğan losing his place in a packed midfield.
- For Galatasaray: Landing a player of Gündoğan’s pedigree—combined with recent signings like Leroy Sané and Victor Osimhen—signals strong ambition in both domestic and European competition.
- For Fans and Gündoğan Himself: This transfer is as much emotional as tactical. It’s a homecoming, a closure of one storied chapter and the exciting start of another.
Key Transfer Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Transfer Type | Free transfer from Manchester City |
| Contract Duration | 2 years (2025–26 & 2026–27 seasons) |
| Annual Salary | €4.5 million net |
| Reason for Move | Childhood dream, emotional connection |
| First Appearances? | Yet to make official club debut |
In Summary: İlkay Gündoğan’s move to Galatasaray is big news—blending sporting prestige with personal ambition. It’s a decision shaped by legacy, family ties, and a deep-seated love for the game—and the club. Welcome home, Gündoğan.