Pundit Steve Nicol has spoken of his shock over Ilkay Gundogan’s exit from Manchester City.
The 32-year-old has decided to take up a new challenge, joining Spanish giants Barcelona on a free transfer.
The star has agreed a ‘2+1’ contract with the club.
Supposedly, Gundogan made the move after City only offered a ‘1+1’ contract.
He recently played for Germany against Poland and after that game, Barca’s Robert Lewandowski apparently convinced him to join the club.
Gundogan’s transfer has not yet been officially announced.
But it will be this week, and some are very surprised about the move.
Steve Nicol says he’s shock Ilkay Gundogan has left Manchester City
In the eyes of former Liverpool defender Nicol, Gundogan’s exit from City is a real surprise.
He said in a video for ESPN FC: “I’m shocked he’s left Man City. But the fact is, he was playing for the best team of the planet. Barcelona should be very thankful the situation turned out in their favour, big time.”
Barcelona have reportedly admired Gundogan for some time.
Fabrizio Romano said recently that the club feel he is really underrated.
They have wanted him as far back as last summer.
But the Catalan giants have swooped this summer to take the maestro on a free, which suits them much more.
Ilkay Gundogan exit didn’t have to happen
So Gundogan is going, and it’s a real shame because he is still such a fantastic player.
But an agreement seemingly just couldn’t be reached.
You can understand City being a bit reluctant to offer the contract Barca have. City could have avoided losing Gundogan is they really wanted, but that hint of doubt has clearly stopped them offering 2+1 years.
He will be a big miss. Gundogan is excellent in any role in midfield and obviously a big leader in the dressing room.
Hopefully, Mateo Kovacic will prove to be a solid replacement
