These are happy days for Manchester City after Champions League triumph over Inter Milan last Saturday. However, captain Ilkay Gündogan’s yet to announce his final decision regarding his future. The 32-year-old German international kept both his current club and FC Barcelona in suspense. According to MD, Manchester City improved their contract offer, increasing the financial terms. Meanwhile, Barcelona already presented a three-year offer to demonstrate their unwavering confidence in the midfielder. Both clubs are eagerly awaiting his decision.
Decision in the coming days
These are suspenseful moments for both clubs. Both the ‘Citizens’ and the ‘Blaugrana’ wait for the verdict of a player who holds significance in their respective plans. Gündogan’s no ordinary player. Having just completed a treble under Pep Guardiola’s leadership, he played a crucial role in City’s success. He was even the captain of his team in the final in Istanbul. Initially, Manchester City’s renewal offer was deemed stingy, adhering to the policy of offering only one fixed season to players in their thirties.
However, it has been revised upwards given Gündogan’s exceptional performances, notably his two goals that secured the title for City in the Cup final derby against Manchester United. On the other hand, Barcelona’s contract proposal has been more generous from the start, offering a longer-term commitment. Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández recognizes that Gündogan would significantly enhance their midfield play, and his past partnership with Robert Lewandowski at Borussia Dortmund makes him an ideal assist provider for the prolific striker.
While Barcelona had cautious optimism before the Istanbul final regarding Gündogan’s potential move to La Liga, they are aware of Manchester City’s recent push to retain their experienced midfielder. All parties eagerly anticipate the final decision. Now, the ball is in Gündogan’s court.
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