‘This is heartbreaking’, ‘I’m honestly shocked’, ‘Thanks for everything’ – Many Man City fans react as 31-year-old star set to leave this summer

Manchester City fans have been reacting to a post on Twitter which relays a report that claims Ilkay Gundogan is set to leave this summer.

The 31-year-old, who has made 252 appearances for the Citizens across a five-and-a-half-year period, has scored 47 goals for City since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2016.

Gundogan is out of contract at the end of next season, which will take his time at City to seven years. It was reported in March that City are expected to offer the German midfielder an additional 12 months, taking him through to summer 2024.

Pep Guardiola’s side have tied down a number of key players to extensions in the last 12 months, including Joao Cancelo, Ederson, Ruben Dias, John Stones and Kevin De Bruyne.

However, according to the Daily Mail, Gundogan will be allowed to leave after not being guaranteed game time next year – with the German being spotted on a private flight to Spain on Monday, raising suggestions that Real Madrid could be a potential next destination.

The report states that whilst talks have been amicable, Guardiola has told the long-serving maestro that he is free to find another club in the summer following the final day showdown against Aston Villa.

The report was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.

“Such a shame really, he’s a true professional in our team and probably the best example in the league. His back has been hurting this season, but I’ll never forget his services throughout the years. I’ll miss you man, wishing you the best wherever you go”
Credit: @Priceless_BS20

“I’m honestly shocked”
Credit: @andrew_wadhams

“This is a horrible decision.”
Credit: @OlaCityBoi

“This is painful..”
Credit: @buckslevito

“This is heartbreaking. We still need his replacement and a defensive midfield backup. Master of cutting edge 😭😭. Really gonna be missed.”
Credit: @JumaniLahai

“If it is true then I wish him nothing but happiness for him .”
Credit: @mcfcmolly

“Sigh, he been great ever seen he signed for us. Never forget last season. Thank you for everything Whippy!.”
Credit: @Abdul_Moeez4

“Will always be grateful for the season he filled in for KDB and literally won us the league…cant hate this guy..with one year left its sensible to allow him to leave and we get at least something.”
Credit: @thecityzensfc

“Makes sense tbh. Him and Jesus are very similar, could start for a lot of teams but won’t start consistently for us. Been a great servant to the club, good luck Gundo”
Credit: @a779457

“Fantastic servant to the club. Great footballer and even better human. Will be sorely missed.”
Credit: @D2588Ryan

“I feel like this Summer is gonna be the biggest rebuild of the club we’ve had since the 17/18 season. Lot of players in, lot of players out. Big changes coming. Hopefully it goes as well as it did last time.”
Credit: @BenCaunce

“Brilliant signing, will go with my best wishes. Technically brilliant player and amazing professional.”
Credit: @majorramblings