Ilkay Gündogan Completes Surprise Move to Galatasaray

Ilkay Gündogan has officially joined Galatasaray after leaving Manchester City on a free transfer. He signed a two-year contract with the Turkish champions. Gündogan is expected to sign until June 2027, as confirmed by reports regarding his transfer details.

TRANSFER DETAILS CONFIRMED

After months of speculation, Galatasaray announced the signing of veteran midfielder Ilkay Gündogan ahead of the 2025/26 season. The 34-year-old arrives in Istanbul after spending eight seasons with Manchester City, where he was a key figure under Pep Guardiola. The move comes after Manchester City allowed Gündogan to leave for a fee of about £3.5 million, marking a strategic shift for the club in light of ongoing salary costs.

Talks between Gündogan and Guardiola accelerated his exit, with City releasing him to save on salary costs. The former German international is expected to bring leadership and experience to Galatasaray’s midfield as they look to defend their Turkish Super Lig title. Gündogan has signed a contract lasting until June 2027, reaffirming his pivotal role in the club’s plans.

WHY GALATASARAY TARGETED GÜNDOGAN

Galatasaray won the 2024/25 Turkish Super Lig, finishing clear of arch-rivals Fenerbahçe. The team is keen to boost its experience ahead of another domestic title challenge and the UEFA Champions League group stage. Gündogan’s vision and skill are seen as vital, given his recent record at Manchester City, where he played 29 matches in the Premier League last season, scoring 4 goals and providing 6 assists. Despite being in his mid-thirties, his fitness and tactical intelligence impressed Galatasaray’s staff.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CLUB AND PLAYER?

Gündogan will make his Turkish Super Lig debut when Galatasaray travel to Kasımpaşa on September 7. Galatasaray currently stand first in the league, two points ahead of Beşiktaş, with Fenerbahçe trailing by five. Kasımpaşa sit 11th, only three points from the relegation zone. The club expects Gündogan’s experience to help guide younger players and maintain their strong start. Galatasaray’s Champions League group stage opener against Porto is scheduled for September 17, a fixture that will test both Gündogan and his new squad’s ambitions on the European stage.