İlkay Gündoğan is expected to stay at Manchester City until the end of his contract, despite strong links to Galatasaray earlier this summer.
The İlkay Gündoğan Manchester City contract situation has been clarified by Gala boss Okan Buruk, who spoke to German media this week and poured cold water on claims that the midfielder was close to a move to Istanbul.
Reports in Turkey last week claimed Gündoğan had agreed personal terms with the Turkish giants and would earn €6m per season. But both his agent and now Buruk himself have denied any formal talks have taken place.
What Buruk Said About Gündoğan
“İlkay Gündoğan is a person with character. He has a contract with Manchester City for another year, and I think he will complete it there,” said Okan Buruk. — Sky.de
The Gala coach also acknowledged the mutual respect between player and club:
“We love Ilkay very much. We know he has a great love for Galatasaray.”
Gündoğan’s Contract Situation at City
Gündoğan signed a two-year extension in 2024 that ties him to Manchester City until June 2026. At 34 years old, he remains a valuable part of Pep Guardiola’s squad rotation, providing experience and control in big games.
Despite age concerns, Gündoğan made 54 appearances in all competitions last season — proof of his continued fitness and importance.
Analyst Verdict
Gündoğan has always been a loyal, tactically intelligent professional. While a move to Galatasaray would’ve made emotional sense — especially as he nears the twilight of his career — there’s little reason for him to leave now.
He’s still trusted at Manchester City, still delivering on the pitch, and under contract for another season. Expect him to stay put until 2026 — barring a dramatic change in direction from both parties.
Key Insights
- Gündoğan is expected to honour his Manchester City contract until 2026
- Galatasaray rumours have been dismissed by both his agent and Okan Buruk
- The 34-year-old made 54 appearances for City last season
- Gala boss says Gündoğan has “character” and “love” for the club
- No official transfer talks have taken place with any Super Lig side
What’s Next?
With Super Lig interest cooling and Gündoğan’s camp aligned with City, the midfielder is expected to stay at the Etihad for the 2025/26 campaign. Galatasaray may return next summer — but for now, any move appears off the table.
Should Gündoğan finish his career at City — or make a late move to Galatasaray next summer?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 23 Jul 2025 14:40
Just finish at City - he's not the player he used to be, let him sit out his last contract and after that it is up to him abviously but quit football before it quits you/.
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