Despite Manchester City's impressive treble-winning season and Gundogan's significant contributions as a key player and captain, there were no signs that the club's management wanted to offer a long-term contract extension to the 32-year-old midfielder. Instead, they only presented a one-year deal with limited salary terms.
Gundogan felt the pragmatism of the club's approach, which aligned with Manchester City's policy of offering short-term contracts to aging players. This was evident in their treatment of Fernandinho, whose contract was also extended for only one year in 2021, among other senior players. While Gundogan could have become a legend at Manchester City after many years of service, he found it easier to join a resurgent giant like Barcelona, the former La Liga champions and Champions League contenders, under the guidance of a talented manager.
Taking emotions aside, Gundogan showed that it was unreasonable for him not to be offered a longer contract at Manchester City. The majority of his goals in the past two months further emphasized the club's failure to appreciate his contributions. However, Guardiola wanted Gundogan to stay but compromised with the decision of the board. Each time Gundogan shined and achieved victory on the field, it created difficulties for Guardiola during press conferences, where he had to explain why the club was indifferent towards Gundogan.
When Gundogan was hailed as the "Prime Zidane" in the final months of the season, Guardiola urged the board to do everything possible to keep Gundogan, even if it meant extending his contract for only one year without any changes to his salary. However, for Gundogan, this was a paltry offer that pushed him towards Barcelona, a club that had desired him for the past three years and presented a lucrative three-year contract.
Barcelona's offer of a longer-term contract provided Gundogan with more security, and no one could question his decision to leave. The crucial factor was that Gundogan was ready for a new challenge that could help him maintain his high performance leading up to the UEFA Euro 2024, which would take place in Germany next summer.
Gundogan will always be a Citizen, as he stated in his farewell message, and the club will never forget his immense contributions, especially as a captain who played a significant role in securing four out of five Premier League titles. From Mr. Whippy to Silky Ilkay to the Prime Zidane, Gundogan deserved the praise from Barcelona as they welcomed "one of the best midfielders in the world in the past decade."
Many at Manchester City will remember Ilkay Gundogan. He was described by a teammate as the best ball-playing midfielder in the world, and the club surely has iconic images to honor Gundogan's seven years of dedication at the Etihad.
They hope it won't be the last time he is here. Guardiola hinted that Gundogan could become an exceptional coach, and City Football Group is always looking for talented individuals in that field. As both parties continue on their respective paths, they will continue to monitor each other's progress.
