Manchester City midfielder triggers contract extension

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Ilkay Gundogan has triggered a contract extension, although uncertainty still surrounds his long-term future at the club.

Gundogan, who left City for Barcelona in 2023, made a surprise return just one year later after the Catalan club faced financial difficulties.

Upon his return last summer, the former Germany international was handed a one-year contract with an option for an extension.

Guardiola revealed that the option, which extends the deal until the summer of 2026, has been activated based on the number of appearances Gundogan has made this season.

Gundogan, who left City for Barcelona in 2023, made a surprise return just one year later after the Catalan club faced financial difficulties

Despite the extension, doubts persist regarding Gundogan’s future with the club, with discussions still ongoing.

Speaking to the media, Guardiola said: “He has one more year contract, definitely. What’s going to happen (in the summer), I don’t know, but he has one more year contract now. The Gundo from Leicester, the Gundo from Bournemouth, the Gundo from today (vs Crystal Palace) is the Gundo I remember, when we won the treble and quadruple and an important player.

“So his activity, his pace, and his defensive intelligence arrived. Gundo has been with us massively. And as a team, we could not help him, because it’s not about you, you, you.”

Despite signing an extension with Manchester City, Ilkay Gundogan could still depart the eight-time Premier League champions this summer.

However, Pep Guardiola may be eager to retain the former club captain, especially with the team currently in a transitional phase.

With Kevin De Bruyne set to leave and other veterans potentially following suit, keeping Gundogan could be a priority.

After a challenging return to City, Gundogan gradually found his form and started the last five matches for the defending Premier League champions.

Given his current form, he is likely to play a key role in the remainder of the season as Guardiola’s side aim to secure Champions League qualification for next season and contend for the FA Cup.