34-year-old Gundogan s fate is forked: Should I stay in Manchester City or go to Türkiye?

34-year-old German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is facing a key choice in his career: should he continue to stay at Manchester City to fight for limited playing time, or choose to leave and start a new chapter? As an experienced midfielder, his decision not only affects personal development, but also has a profound impact on Manchester City's lineup adjustment.

Gundogan's career status: The data is impressive but the role changes

Reviewing Gundogan's performance in the 2024/25 season, he made a total of 54 appearances, including 38 starts, contributing 5 goals and 7 assists, and his cumulative playing time reached an astonishing 3,359 minutes. However, he also experienced 16 substitutes, the highest record since the 2017/18 season. These numbers undoubtedly prove his ability, but also reveal a problem: as he grows older, Gundogan's role at Manchester City gradually changes from an absolute main player to a rotation player.

Despite this, Gundogan's physical condition remains at the top level, and at the age of 34, he is still able to ease his time in high-intensity competitions. This is a rare asset for any team that pursues championships.

Marc City's midfield competition intensifies: new players are coming and lineup adjustments

Manchester City signs Dutch midfielder Tijani Reindez for 55 million euros, the young player is regarded as an important part of the team's future. This move undoubtedly intensifies the competition for Manchester City's midfield position, especially after Kevin De Bruyne's transfer to Naples, Guardiola needs to redefine the midfield layout.

At present, Gundogan and Kovacic may be key points in the midfield adjustment. Guardiola hopes to avoid tactical bottlenecks caused by lineup depth issues last season, so he may give Reindes more opportunities while adjusting Gundogan's role. This means that Gundogan's playing time may be further compressed.

Transfer rumors: Galatasaray's olive branch

According to the authoritative media "The Athletic", Turkish giant Galatasaray has shown strong interest in Gundogan. As the overlord of the Turkish Premier League, Galatasaray can provide Gundogan with a stable main position, and the rhythm and intensity of the Turkish League are more suitable for his current age and form.

For Gundogan, this is not only a challenge at the end of his career, but also a change in his lifestyle. Turkish culture and environment may bring him a new experience, and as the core of the team, his professional value can be maximized.

Future choice: stick to the Premier League or start a new chapter?

Gundogan's future choices are nothing more than two ways: one is to continue to stay in Manchester City, cooperate with Guardiola, and strive to participate in top events such as the Premier League and the Champions League; the other is to choose transfers and seek more playing time and main position, especially at the end of his career.

It is worth mentioning that Gundogan has retired from the German national team and does not need to consider it for the 2026 World Cup, which allows him to plan his career path more freely. Whether it is perseverance or leaving, Gundogan has enough capital to choose a path that suits him.

Conclusion: The choice of destiny is related to the individual and the team

Gundogan's future choice not only affects his personal career, but also has a profound impact on Manchester City's midfield layout. Whether it's continuing to play for Manchester City or accepting Galatasaray's invitation, the German midfielder will continue to write his football legend with his professionalism and outstanding performance.