Ilkay Gundogan re-signs with Manchester City

Aug. 23 (UPI) -- German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has re-signed with Manchester City, the Premier League soccer franchise announced Friday. He joined the Sky Blues on a free transfer from Spanish La Liga club Barcelona.

"My seven years at Manchester City were a time of pure contentment for me, both on and off the pitch," Gundogan told ManCity.com.

"I grew as a person and a player, developed a special relationship with the City fans and enjoyed amazing success. It was an exceptional period in my life. To have the opportunity to return here means so much."

Gundogan, 33, previously played for the Sky Blues from 2016 to 2023. He also suited up for German clubs VfL Bochum II, FC Nurnberg and Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona of Spain's La Liga. He joined Barcelona on a two-year contract last summer.

"After just one year it's already time to say goodbye ," Gundogan wrote Friday on social media. "I came here to face a new, exciting challenge, and I was ready for it. I have given everything to fight for the team and the club the best possible way in a difficult season and I was looking forward to helping my teammates in the new campaign.

"Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad. Nevertheless, it's been a time with incredible experiences and ups and downs -- I always wanted to play at Barca, and I am very grateful for a memory and experience that I will remember for my life. I wish you the best for the season and for the future. The fans deserve to get this big club back to the world's best."

Gundogan totaled five goals and 14 assists while at Barcelona.

"The club publicly expresses its gratitude to Gundogan for his commitment and dedication and wishes him every fortune in the future, both personally and professionally," Barcelona said in a news release.

Gundogan announced Monday that he was retiring from the German national team. He totaled 19 goals in 82 international appearances.

The Sky Blues will host Ipswich Town in their second Premier League match of the season at 10 a.m. EDT Saturday in Manchester.