Barcelona have signed Ilkay Gundogan on a free transfer from treble winners Manchester City.
The German midfielder has signed a two-year contract, according to the LaLiga club.
Gundogan left City after captaining the English club to a treble of the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League last season, capping off a spectacular seven-year stay in England in which he won 14 trophies, including five league titles.
ALSO READ: El Clasico: Kessie scores late winner for Barcelona
“For me, it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years,” Gundogan said in a statement.
“Manchester has been my home, and I have felt part of a very special family at City.
“I have been lucky to have experienced so many unforgettable moments in my time here and to have been captain for this extra special season has been the greatest experience of my career.”
https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1673255007427207169?t=OWrEUBq_GqpnBzZsftIWNA&s=19
The former Borussia Dortmund player was Pep Guardiola’s first signing at City despite being sidelined with a knee injury after winning the Bundesliga and German Cup in 2012.
ALSO READ: Manchester City beat Inter to win Champions League title
He established himself as the man for the big occasion at City, particularly in the latter two seasons when he scored important goals that helped them win multiple titles.
Gundogan leaves City after more than 300 games, 60 goals and 40 assists in all competitions.
Txiki Begiristain, City’s director of football, described Gundogan as “an inspiration to everyone.”
“Ilkay has truly cemented his place in Manchester City history, and we all wish him well in the next chapter of his career,” he continued.
His knowledge will be vital to Barca coach Xavi after long-serving player Sergio Busquets left the Catalan club at the end of the season after 18 years.
Barcelona won LaLiga last season but failed to go past the group round of the Champions League and were eliminated in the Copa del Rey semifinals.