Ilkay Gundogan is exploring the possibility of leaving Barcelona this summer. The 33-year-old midfielder, who joined the Catalan club on a free transfer from Manchester City, has spent only one full season at Barcelona.
Despite having two years remaining on his contract, Barcelona has given Gundogan the freedom to seek a suitable move if he finds one. Interest in the player has emerged from clubs in England, Spain, and Saudi Arabia. Last season, Gundogan made 51 appearances across all competitions as Barcelona finished second in La Liga.
Barcelona's head coach, Hansi Flick, addressed the speculation following Gundogan’s absence from the team’s season-opening victory over Valencia due to a concussion. Flick, who previously managed Gundogan with the Germany national team, remarked, “I know him very well. I appreciate the player and the person he is. We spoke about everything, but it will stay between us. It's not for you to know. I have a feeling he will stay.”
Despite Flick’s desire to retain Gundogan, the midfielder’s future at the club could be affected by Barcelona’s complex financial situation. The club has reportedly struggled to register their new £51 million signing, Dani Olmo, due to La Liga’s squad cost control regulations.
Barcelona is also considering selling striker Vitor Roque before the transfer deadline. The club has recently seen the departure of captain Sergi Roberto and full-back Julian Araujo, who joined Bournemouth last week.
Additionally, Gundogan has announced his retirement from international football. He made his debut for Germany in 2011, earned 82 caps, and captained the team at this summer’s European Championship. While he described his international career as a "highlight," he acknowledged feeling "a certain tiredness in my body and also in my head" before the tournament.
