Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that veteran midfielder Ilkay Gundogan will remain at the Etihad Stadium for another season after a contract extension clause was automatically triggered.
Pep Guardiola confirms Ilkay Gundogan’s contract extension at Manchester City until 2026
Gundogan, who returned to City just a year after departing for FC Barcelona, has impressed since his unexpected comeback.
The 33-year-old rejoined the club last summer on a one-year deal after financial constraints forced Barcelona to part ways with the German international.
With City in need of experienced reinforcements, Guardiola moved swiftly to secure the return of his former captain on a free transfer.
The short-term contract included a performance-based clause that would automatically extend his stay by another year if he featured in a certain percentage of matches — a target Gundogan has now met.
Following City’s dominant 5-2 win over Crystal Palace, Guardiola confirmed the extension.
“He has one more year contract, definitely,” said Guardiola.
“What’s going to happen in the summer, I don’t know. But he’s here for another season.”
The City boss praised Gundogan’s recent performances, likening his current form to the one he showed during the club’s historic Treble-winning campaign in 2022/23.
“The Gundo from Leicester, the Gundo from Bournemouth, the Gundo from today – that’s the Gundo I remember,” Guardiola said.
“His activity, his pace, his defensive intelligence… he’s been massively important for us.”
While Gundogan has secured his place for the 2025/26 season, questions remain about City’s broader midfield plans.
With Kevin De Bruyne’s future uncertain and a summer rebuild looming, new sporting director Hugo Viana is expected to oversee major changes in the engine room.
Still, for now, Gundogan’s leadership and consistency offer a reassuring presence in midfield as City chase more silverware in a packed season.
Whether his role remains as pivotal next year or evolves with new arrivals, Gundogan’s influence on and off the pitch remains undisputed at Manchester City.
