Ilkay Gundogan has already teased a sensational return to Manchester City in fresh boost to supporters | OneFootball

Ilkay Gundogan has previously hinted at returning to the Etihad Stadium, amid suggestions that the midfielder is set to re-sign for Manchester City this summer.

The 33-year-old could be on the brink of completing a dramatic return to Pep Guardiola’s first-team squad, just over a year after leaving Manchester City on a free transfer to sign for La Liga giants FC Barcelona.

Gundogan made 51 appearances during his debut season at the Camp Nou, but could sensationally re-sign for Manchester City this summer, having previously enjoyed an historic seven-year stay in east Manchester.

The German midfielder, who announced retirement from international football on Monday, captained Manchester City to a landmark treble during his final weeks with the Sky Blues, lifting the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and Emirates FA Cup.

Gundogan was Guardiola’s first signing at the Etihad Stadium in 2016, with the midfielder going on to make 304 appearances, winning 14 trophies and scoring 60 goals – including a famous brace at Wembley Stadium in the FA Cup final against Manchester United.

The 33-year-old’s future was thrown into doubt after his absence from the Barcelona squad for their 1-2 win over Valencia on Saturday, with Barcelona having agreed to depart with the midfielder following discussions between the player and manager Hansi Flick.

According to the information of The Athletic’s Pol Ballus, Manchester City are interested in the possibility of bringing Ilkay Gundogan back to the Etihad Stadium, with Guardiola having approved plans to re-sign the midfielder.

Gundogan may have already previously teased a future return to Manchester City in 2023, saying: “This is my plan. I hope so. If not on the pitch next season, I will hopefully certainly find another opportunity.”

Gundogan could be granted the opportunity to return in the comings days, although the German also reportedly faces interest from Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Manchester City host Ipswich Town at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, and also visit West Ham United prior to the international break next month.