Barcelona have confirmed Ilkay Gundogan is joining them on a two-year deal, with the option of a further season.
At 32, Manchester City simply weren’t willing to go that far.
Their offer was a season, with the option of a second and believe that is in line with previous contract offers to players of similar stature.
Time will tell whether the move is right but City’s advantage is that, as Treble winners, they are approaching the situation from a position of strength.
Txiki Begiristain, director of football at Manchester City, described Ilkay Gundogan as an “inspiration to everyone”.
“Ilkay has been a wonderful servant for Manchester City, and he leaves our club on a very special high having captained us to a historic Treble,” he said.
“He has played a huge part in the successes we have enjoyed in recent seasons and Ilkay’s intelligence, leadership and commitment to the Club – both on and off the field – has been an inspiration to everyone.
“Ilkay has truly cemented his place in the history of Manchester City and we all wish him well in the next chapter of his career.
“And he leaves us knowing that he will always be welcomed at this football club.”
Ilkay Gundogan leaves his “special family” at Manchester City with a word of thanks to manager Pep Guardiola, his team-mates and the club’s supporters.
The 32-year-old Germany midfielder, who is set to join Barcelona, described captaining the Treble-winning side as “the greatest experience of my career”.
“For me, it has been a total privilege and pleasure to be part of Manchester City for the last seven years,” he said.
“Manchester has been my home and I have felt part of a very special family at City.
“I have been lucky to have experienced hundreds of unforgettable moments in my time here and to have been captain for this extra special season has been the greatest experience of my career.
“First, I would like to thank Pep. To have been able to play under and learn from him for so long has been something I will never forget.
“I would also like to thank all my teammates – past and present – who have all played such a special part in making my time here so amazing.
“Furthermore I would like to thank the incredible City fans. They have supported me from the moment I arrived, and I owe them all so much for their support.
“This club made me realise all my dreams and I will forever be thankful for this opportunity. I will carry City always in my heart. Once a blue, always a blue.”