Pique speak ang.rily about Laporta decision

The pair have previously lived in the same building in Manchester and have a close personal relationship off the field.

Gündogan, who announced his retirement from the Germany national team on Monday, made more than 300 appearances for City between 2016 and 2023. He won 12 major trophies during his first spell with City, including five Premier League titles and one Champions League.

City were keen for him to stay last summer before he departed on a free transfer. Gündogan turned down a number of contract offers, as well as interest from Arsenal, to join Barcelona.

He made 51 appearances in all competitions last season, but has been allowed to leave the club to ease their financial issues following the arrival of attacking midfielder Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig.

Legend Piqué after İlkay Gündoğan’s departure from Barcelona

He came to Barcelona for zero euros and convinced Manchester City to let him go to Barcelona to fulfill his childhood dream. He played for Barcelona and became the player with the most assists in the season and achieved a record for the most key passes in Europe, surpassing Kroos and De Bruyne.

When he saw Araújo’s mistake against Paris, he went to the media and spoke out bravely because of his love for Barcelona and the team. When he learned that Barcelona was in a difficult financial situation, he quietly left to allow the club to register Olmo.

He gave up the remaining two years of his contract as a gift to the club and to support them in their financial crisis. A legend as a player and a legend as a captain. Every place and every fan will remember İlkay forever as a true Barcelona lover and player. We will never forget that wonderful year, as if it was ten years.