Ilkay Gundogan reveals reason for Man City exit as Treble winning captain shares emotional farewell message

Former Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan has revealed why he has left the club for a second time in two years after sealing a move to Galatasaray.

Having initially joined the club in 2016 from Borussia Dortmund, Gundogan won 14 trophies with the side, including the Treble in 2023 as captain.

He then, though, left for Barcelona, where he spent a year before returning under Pep Guardiola for a second spell, with high hopes he would be able to replicate his form from the first time around.

The German struggled with that, though. He played 54 times last season, but struggled to produce the same standard as his previous stay, and found himself down the pecking order as time went on.

The midfielder, 34, hasn’t played in the Premier League this season and has now waved goodbye to City, joining Galatasaray in Turkey. In total, he made 358 appearances, scoring 65 goals, and will now join up with the Turkish champions.

And Gundogan has now revealed why he left the club. Taking to social media, he released a lengthy statement as he said his goodbyes to the fans and club again.

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Ilkay Gundogan has revealed why he has left Manchester City again in an emotional statement

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He has joined Turkish club Galatasaray just a year after rejoining City 12 months on from his original departure

Dear Cityzens, I want to be honest with you,’ he began. ‘The reason why I’m leaving is very simple: I still want to play football as often as possible, because that’s what I love the most.

‘I’ll turn 35 soon, but I still feel very fit and I truly believe I can continue to perform at a high level for a Champions League team. And not just that – I now have the opportunity to join my childhood favourite club, in a country that means so much to me.

‘Man City want a new beginning after an incredible era – something I can fully understand and respect. I will never, ever forget what this great club has done for me over so many years. Most of my time here was absolutely fantastic and incredibly successful. The club and the city of Manchester will always hold a very special place in my heart.

‘I want to thank all my team-mates, the chairman, everyone working behind the scenes, every fan – and of course Pep, who made this amazing time possible. I’m leaving City with great gratitude – thank you – on behalf of my whole family.’

City are trying to rebuild after conceding the Premier League title to Liverpool last season, but have lost two of their first three top flight matches of the campaign.

Last season, they finished 13 points behind the Reds, and already trail by six this campaign. That’s despite Guardiola reinforcing his coaching staff and a number of players arriving over the last few months.

They will face Manchester United in their first match after the international break in a little under a fortnight.