WORLD SPORT

End of an Era for Pep Guardiola’s Man City as Three Key Treble-Winning Stars Depart in a Single Day

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The major transformation at MANCHESTER CITY led to THREE key figures from their Treble-winning squad leaving on the SAME day.

The talented German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan was the final one to exit the Etihad, granted permission to depart on Tuesday for Galatasaray, as the Turkish transfer window remains open until September 12.

Ilkay Gundogan celebrating after a soccer match.

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Ilkay Gundogan is the latest Man City star to leave the club in a massive rejigCredit: Reuters
Manuel Akanji giving a thumbs up.

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Man City also parted ways with a Treble winning defenderCredit: AP
Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson waving to fans in Istanbul.

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Goalkeeper Ederson was almost forced out by the arrival of two rivals between the Etihad sticksCredit: Getty

Even though he was one of Pep Guardiola‘s preferred players, the former Dortmund star followed 30-year-old defender Manuel Akanji and goalkeeper Ederson out the door in a significant reshuffle.

Gundogan left on a free transfer, despite having a year remaining on his City deal, to clear up space in the revamped squad and wage bill.

The Turkish-German star was Guardiola’s first signing at City back in 2016 and spent seven years with the club before transferring to Barcelona.

He rejoined City in August 2024, making 33 appearances in the Premier League last season as Guardiola’s team finished in a disappointing third place.

The elegant playmaker expressed: “Manchester City will always have a special place in my heart.

“We achieved significant success together and created countless unforgettable moments, especially being the captain during the Treble-winning season.

“Winning the Premier League and FA Cup trophies meant a great deal to me, but the chance to lift the Champions League trophy for this club for the first time, particularly in Istanbul, will stay with me forever.

“I have no doubt that Manchester City will witness even more success in the future, and I will definitely be cheering from afar as I continue my career in Turkey, a place that means so much to me.”

Akanji has departed to join Italian powerhouse Inter Milan on a season-long loan, which includes an option to make the deal permanent next season.

The loan fee stands at £870,000, with the buy clause expected to be around £13 million.

Watch the wild moment Ederson gets SHAVED on live TV and even trims reporters’ beards post-Man City’s treble triumph

Ederson, aged 32, may compete against Gundogan this season, after transferring to Fenerbahce for £11 million.

The tattooed goalkeeper had no alternative following Guardiola’s acquisition of Burnley keeper James Trafford last month and Italy international Gianluigi Donnarumma on deadline day.

In an extensive statement, Ederson commented on his departure: “I leave Manchester City feeling incredibly proud of all we have accomplished together, and I am privileged to have worn the jersey so many times.

“Under Pep, we have dominated the Premier League and conquered Europe. The journey has been phenomenal.

“Firstly, I want to express my gratitude to him and Head of Goalkeeping Xabier Mancisidor for helping me become the best goalkeeper I could be, and for all they’ve taught me about the game. I’m also thankful to my teammates.

“The determination to win every match we play has been a joy to be part of, making every day on the training ground or in the dressing room a delightful experience with all of you.

“Finally, to the fans. Thank you for making me feel at home in such a distant city and for your unwavering support throughout this incredible time for me and my family.

“I arrived in Manchester eight years ago filled with hope, but I could never have predicted such a wonderful time together.”