Why a Mateo Kovacic decision could majorly complicate an Ilkay Gundogan transfer return | OneFootball

A potential return to Manchester City for Ilkay Gundogan could be complicated by a past decision taken by Mateo Kovacic.

Kovacic scored against his former club during Manchester City’s 0-2 win at Stamford Bridge on the opening weekend of the Premier League season on Sunday afternoon, as the Croatian international begins his second campaign at the Etihad Stadium.

The 30-year-old signed for Manchester City from Chelsea in June 2023, penning a four-year deal as part of an initial £25 million move to east Manchester from west London.

The midfielder featured 46 times for Pep Guardiola’s side during the recent 2023/24 season, as Manchester City lifted the Premier League title for a sixth time in seven years, and for the fourth successive campaign.

Kovacic arrived following the departure of former club captain Ilkay Gundogan, who chose against signing a new contract with Manchester City in favour of completing a free transfer to FC Barcelona.

The German international, who enjoyed a glittering seven-year stay at Manchester City, has been linked with possible shock return to the Etihad Stadium this summer, just one year after moving to the Camp Nou.

According to the information of The Athletic’s Pol Ballus, Manchester City are interested in the possibility of bringing Ilkay Gundogan back, after the 33-year-old reportedly agreed to leave Barcelona this summer following a conversation with manager Hansi Flick.

Any possible return to the Etihad Stadium could be complicated by Kovacic’s decision to have inherited the number 8 shirt from Gundogan last June however, with the current Barcelona midfielder having become synonymous with the number 8 jersey.

Gundogan made 334 appearances and scored 60 goals while at Manchester City, winning 14 trophies, including five Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League.

The German midfielder has worn the number 22 shirt at Barcelona, and the number 21 shirt, made famous by David Silva, is also currently vacant at Manchester City.