Ilkay Gündoğan has left Manchester City to join Turkish champions Galatasaray, subject to international clearance, bringing an end to his remarkable two-stint career at the Etihad Stadium.

The 34-year-old German midfielder made 358 appearances across all competitions for the Blues, scoring 65 goals and establishing himself as one of the most successful players in the club’s modern history.

Gündoğan’s journey with City began in July 2016 when he arrived from Borussia Dortmund. During his first seven-year stint, he became synonymous with success, collecting an impressive 14 trophies including the historic Treble of Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in 2022/23, which he completed as club captain.

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After departing for Barcelona following that memorable Champions League triumph in Istanbul, the German international returned to Manchester for the 2024/25 campaign. However, after just one season back in sky blue, he has opted for a new challenge with the Turkish Super Lig champions.

Gündoğan’s City career was punctuated by several iconic moments that will live long in the memory of supporters. Perhaps none more so than his dramatic late brace against Aston Villa that completed a stunning comeback from 2-0 down to secure a 3-2 victory and seal the Premier League title in the 2021/22 season.

His contribution to City’s Treble-winning campaign was equally memorable, scoring after just 12 seconds in the FA Cup final against Manchester United – the fastest goal in FA Cup final history – before adding a second to help secure the trophy in the first-ever all-Manchester showpiece.

Speaking about his departure, Gündoğan expressed his deep connection to the club: “Manchester City will always hold a special place in my heart. We have enjoyed so much success in our time together and there have been so many unforgettable moments, not least being captain for the Treble-winning season.”

The midfielder was particularly reflective about the Champions League triumph: “To win the Premier League and FA Cup trophies meant so much to me, but to then be afforded the opportunity of lifting the Champions League trophy for this Club for the first time, especially in Istanbul, will live with me forever.”

In a heartfelt message on social media, Gündoğan provided insight into his decision: “I want to be honest with you… 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.”

The move also represents a deeply personal opportunity for the midfielder: “I now have the opportunity to join my childhood favourite club, in a country that means so much to me.”

Director of Football Hugo Viana paid tribute to Gündoğan’s immense contribution: “Ilkay Gündoğan is a name synonymous with success at Manchester City. He brought trophy upon trophy back to the Etihad and no-one will ever forget the huge role he played in those successes.”

Viana also highlighted the player’s character: “More than the footballer, having got to know him since my arrival, I’ve had the privilege of meeting a fantastic person – humble, intelligent and selfless – truly fantastic human qualities.”

Gündoğan’s move to Galatasaray represents a significant coup for the Istanbul giants, who will benefit from the experience and quality of a player who has operated at the highest level throughout his career. His connection to Turkey, through his heritage, adds an extra dimension to what promises to be an exciting new chapter.

As he prepares for this new adventure, Gündoğan concluded his farewell message with characteristic grace: “I’m leaving City with great gratitude – Thank you – on behalf of my whole family.”

Manchester City supporters will undoubtedly miss one of their most influential players of the modern era, but they can take comfort in knowing that Gündoğan’s legacy at the Etihad Stadium is secure, etched in the history books alongside some of the club’s greatest achievements.