(Football news) Ilkay Gundogan had an incredible season with Manchester City as they won their first-ever UCL and completed the treble. Gundogan especially in the business end of the season was really good. His Manchester City contract is ending in July and the midfielder has a decision to make. Barcelona want Ilkay Gundogan and are offering him a 3-year contract while Manchester City are also offering him a new deal. Pep Guardiola has been clear that he wants to keep Gundogan who is the club captain. 

The player has already ruled out a move to Borussia Dortmund as returning to the Bundesliga is not his priority. Ilkay Gundogan is an important part of Manchester City’s team however Pep Guardiola is known to freshen things up. Gundogan will turn 33 in October and may fall down the pecking order next season. Manchester City are close to signing Mateo Kovacic while Declan Rice is also an option. However, Ilkay Gundogan being a senior figure will still play a big role in the team. He still has at least a couple of good years left in him and Manchester City is the place that will give him the best chance of winning trophies. 

Despite all the glory of the Premier League, one thing which they can’t provide is the prestige of playing for Real Madrid or Barcelona. This is a good opportunity for Ilkay Gundogan to try a new challenge. Barcelona are on their way back to being a top club under Xavi. Gundogan could be an important player in Xavi’s system. A successful spell at Barcelona will cement his legacy as a footballer. There are a lot of factors to be considered and it ultimately will depend on what Ilkay Gundogan wants.

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