MANCHESTER CITY’S dramatic overhaul meant THREE heroes of their Treble-winning XI left on ONE day.
German midfield maestro Ilkay Gundogan was last out of the Etihad door, allowed to leave on Tuesday for Galatasaray as the Turkish window remains open until September 12.
Despite being one of Pep Guardiola‘s favourite players, the former Dortmund playmaker follows 30-year-old defender Manuel Akanji, and goalkeeper Ederson for the exit in a drastic revolution.
Gundogan departed on a free – despite having a year left on his City contract, to free up space in the new-look squad and wages.
The Turkish-German ace was Guardiola’s first signing for City in 2016 and spent seven years there before he joined Barcelona.
But he rejoined the club City in August 2024 and made 33 appearances in the Premier League last season as Guardiola’s side finished as disappointing third.
The classy playmaker said: “Manchester City will always hold a special place in my heart.
“We have enjoyed so much success in our time together and there have been so many unforgettable moments, not least being captain for the Treble-winning season.
“To win the Premier League and FA Cup trophies meant so much to me, but to then be afforded the opportunity of lifting the Champions League trophy for this club for the first time, especially in Istanbul, will live with me forever.
“I have no doubts Manchester City will enjoy much more success in the future and I will certainly be watching on from afar as I continue my career in Turkey, a country that means ever such a lot to me.”
Akanji has joined Italian giants Inter Milan on a season-long loan with a clause to make the deal permanent next season.
The loan will cost Inter £870,000, with the buy option understood to be worth £13million.
Ederson, 32, could play against Gundogan this season, after he joined Fenerbahce for £11m.
The tattooed diver had no choice after Guardiola secured the arrivals of Burnley gloveman James Trafford last month and Italy international Gianluigi Donnarumma on deadline day.
In a lengthy statement, Ederson said of his exit: “I leave Manchester City incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, and I am honoured to have worn the shirt so many times.
“Under Pep, we have dominated the Premier League and conquered Europe. It has been amazing.
“I would first of all like to thank him and Head of Goalkeeping Xabier Mancisidor for making me the best goalkeeper I could be and teaching so much about the game. I must also thank my team-mates.
“Our desire to win every game we play has been a joy to be a part of and that has made me relish every day on the training field or in the dressing room with every one of you.
“Finally, the fans. Thank you for making me feel at home in a city so far away from where I am from and for supporting me throughout what has been an amazing period for me and my family.
“I arrived in Manchester eight years ago full of hope, but I could not have predicted such a beautiful time together.”
Read the full article here