Joan Laporta claims Ilkay Gundogan's Barcelona exit was a 'sporting decision' as he breaks silence on midfielder's shock return to Man City

The 33-year-old midfielder, who had only joined Barcelona a year ago, was allowed to return to Manchester City on a free transfer, despite having two years remaining on his contract with the Spanish giants.

Gundogan's exit comes as a shock, especially after he played a crucial role for Barca last season. Despite his contributions, the experienced midfielder was informed by the club's new coach, Hansi Flick, that his starting spot was no longer guaranteed.

However, in a farewell message to Barcelona fans last month, Gundogan hinted that his decision to leave was partly motivated by a desire to help the club alleviate its financial difficulties.

“I have given everything to fight for the team and the club the best possible way in a difficult season and I was looking forward to helping my teammates in the new campaign," he wrote.

“Now I am leaving in a difficult situation, but if my departure can help the club financially, it makes me a bit less sad.”

Laporta has contradicted these claims, insisting that Gundogan's departure was mainly down to sporting reasons. The Barcelona president explained that the arrival of Dani Olmo forced the club to do away with Gundogan as the German was deemed surplus to requirements.

"The decision on Gundogan's departure was not made because of economic factors," he asserted. "He was an excellent player and person in the year he had here with us. With all (due) respect, we decided on a sporting level. Following the signing of Dani Olmo, the role of Gundogan was not clear, because they shared a very similar position."

Laporta also took the opportunity to address rumours surrounding the potential sale of other key players like Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, and Ansu Fati. The Barcelona president was adamant that there were never any intentions to offload these players, despite speculation in the media.

"We were not planning to sell these players," he said. "We didn’t plan to sell these players. We think they can give Barça many matches of glory.”

Barcelona have got off to a perfect start in La Liga under Flick, winning their first four matches. Olmo has two goals to his name and will look to further add to his tally when they face Girona on September 15. Meanwhile, Gundogan will return to action with City against Brentford a day earlier at the Etihad.