ILKAY GUNDOGAN has retired from international football aged 33.
And the Germany star could be edging closer to a surprise return to former club Manchester City who have reportedly contacted his camp.
Barcelona have told Gundogan he is free to listen to offers to leave this summer, according to The Athletic.
The midfielder only departed the Premier League champions to sign for the Catalan club on a free transfer last summer.
Despite being under contract until 2026, Gundogan has been told Barca will not stand in his way if he finds a suitable move.
Despite interest from former boss Pep Guardiola, he has also been linked to Fenerbahce and Galatasaray during his time in Spain.
City attempted to retain Gundogan last summer but were unsuccessful in their efforts with Guardiola admitting they “couldn’t replace” the former Borussia Dortmund man.
Gundogan claimed “tiredness” and an increase in international games as the main driving force behind his decision to retire.
On that, he said on Monday: “Even before the Euros, I felt a certain tiredness in my body and also in my head, which got me thinking.
“And the games at club and national level are not getting any less.”
“Dear football Germany, After a few weeks of consideration, I have come to the conclusion that it is time to end my national team career.
“I look back with great pride on 82 international matches for my home country – a number I could never have dreamed of when I made my debut for the senior national team in 2011.
“My highlight was definitely the huge honour of being able to lead the team as captain at our home European Championships last summer!
“After all these years, we finally managed to make the nation proud again – I’m very happy that I was able to play a part in that.
“But even before the tournament, I felt a certain tiredness in my body and also in my head, which got me thinking.
“And the games at club and national level are not getting any less. I will definitely continue to be a fan of this national team and I really hope that we can continue the upward trend together – and then there is nothing to stop us from being one of the closest contenders for the title at the 2026 World Cup.
“We have a fantastic coach, a really strong team and a great team spirit. Thanks to all the fans, staff, coaches and teammates who have accompanied me on this journey.”
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The former City midfielder made 82 appearances for his nation having made his international debut in 2011.
Gundogan spent seven seasons at the Etihad Stadium, winning five league titles and the Champions League as part of the 2023 treble.
He did not feature for Barcelona in their opening match of the season against Valencia.
But Barca boss Hansi Flick addressed speculation, after Gundogan missed Saturday’s 2-1 win over Valencia, by explaining he was suffering from a concussion.
Flick, who previously managed Gundogan with Germany, said: “I know him very well. I appreciate the player and the person he is.
“We spoke about everything, but it will stay between us. It’s not for you to know. I have a feeling he will stay.”
The likes of Raphinha and Ferran Torres – previously one of Gundogan’s City team-mates – could also be moved on with the Catalans suffering from financial constraints.
Meanwhile City’s sale of Julian Alvarez and Oscar Bobb’s leg fracture, make Gundogan coming back an ideal solution.
Guardiola has admitted to being open to the prospect of acquiring a central midfielder to help alleviate the burden on Rodri.
STAY in the know this summer with The Sun's transfer experts.
Ivan Toney was left out of Brentford’s opening match of the 2024/25 Premier League season due to transfer interest from elsewhere.
Newcastle have reportedly made a fourth bid worth £65million for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.
Chelsea are in talks with Atletico Madrid regarding a permanent move for Joao Felix.
Should an agreement be reached, it could resurrect the sale of Conor Gallagher to the Spanish giants.
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