Ilkay Gundogan revealed that Pep Guardiola hoped the pair would leave Manchester City together as the Treble-winning captain sealed a move to Barcelona.
The 32-year-old, Guardiola’s first signing at City, lived next door to his manager and leaves the Premier League champions a legend after a collection of era-defining goals – including the iconic volley against rivals Manchester United in May’s FA Cup final.
City wanted to keep Gundogan at the Etihad Stadium but did not stretch to offering a two-year contract, while Barca settled on a deal that could extend until 2026.