İlkay Gündoğan has made a name for himself in football and finance. His football career earnings, especially in 2024, showcase his immense success. Let’s dive into how his net worth compares to others.
İlkay Gündoğan Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | İlkay Gündoğan |
| Popular Name | İlkay Gündoğan |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | October 24, 1990 |
| Age | 33 years |
| Parents | Irfan Gundogan, Ayten Gundogan |
| Birthplace | Gelsenkirchen, Germany |
| Nationality | German |
| Ethnicity | Turkish |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife/Spouse | Sara Arfaoui |
| Children | 1 |
| Net Worth | $40M |
| Source of Wealth | Football salary, endorsements |
| Height | 1.80 m |
| Position(s) | Central Midfielder |
| Foot | Right |
| Player Agent | KIN Partners |
| Current Club | Manchester City |
| Number | 19 |
| Joined | Aug 23, 2024 |
| Contract Expires | June 30, 2025 |
| Outfitter | Adidas |
| Market Value | ▪️ Current Market Value: €15.00m (Jun 7, 2024) ▪️ Highest market value: €50.00m (Jun 13, 2019) |
| Youth Career | ▪️ 1994–1998: SV Gelsenkirchen-Hessler 06 ▪️ 1998–1999: Schalke 04 ▪️ 1999–2004: SV Gelsenkirchen-Hessler 06 ▪️ 2004–2005: SSV Buer ▪️ 2005–2008: VfL Bochum |
| Senior Career | ▪️ 2008–2009: VfL Bochum II (2 apps, 1 gls) ▪️ 2009–2011: 1. FC Nürnberg (48 apps, 6 gls) ▪️ 2011–2016: Borussia Dortmund (105 apps, 10 gls) ▪️ 2012: Borussia Dortmund II (1 apps, 0 gls) ▪️ 2016–2023: Manchester City (188 apps, 44 gls) ▪️ 2023–2024: Barcelona (36 apps, 5 gls) ▪️ 2024–: Manchester City (2 apps, 0 gls) |
| International Career | ▪️ 2008: Germany U18 (7 apps, 0 gls) ▪️ 2008–2009: Germany U19 (6 apps, 0 gls) ▪️ 2009–2010: Germany U20 (2 apps, 0 gls) ▪️ 2010–2012: Germany U21 (8 apps, 1 gls) ▪️ 2011–2024: Germany (82 apps, 19 gls) |
| Medal Record | Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup |
How Much is İlkay Gündoğan Net Worth in 2024?
As of 2024, İlkay Gündoğan’s net worth is estimated at $40 million. This fortune has been amassed through his impressive football career, endorsements, and intelligent financial decisions.
When compared to other richest soccer players, he ranks alongside several famous athletes:
- Kevin De Bruyne
- Erling Haaland
- Xherdan Shaqiri
- Bastian Schweinsteiger
These comparisons highlight his financial standing in football, especially when aligned with top players globally.
What is the Salary/Income of İlkay Gündoğan in 2024?
İlkay Gündoğan’s salary in 2024 is £230,000 per week, translating to an impressive £11.96 million per year with Manchester City.
This contract was signed upon his return to the club in August 2024, following his brief stint with Barcelona.
Over the years, his earnings have steadily increased, and his market value has reflected his significant contributions on the pitch.
While his income from his football career remains his primary source of wealth, Gündoğan also benefits from several high-profile endorsements, notably with Adidas, boosting his overall annual income.
Gündoğan has played critical roles in domestic and international competitions, earning substantial performance bonuses, especially while captaining Manchester City to victory in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. The combination of base salary, bonuses, and endorsements solidifies Gündoğan as one of the top earners in football.
Salary and Earnings Breakdown Over the Years
Current Contract(s) at Barcelona and Manchester City
Overview of İlkay Gündoğan
İlkay Gündoğan, born on October 24, 1990, is a prominent German midfielder playing for Manchester City. He began his career at VfL Bochum, moving to 1. FC Nürnberg in 2009 and then to Borussia Dortmund in 2011, where he won a Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double.
His tenure at Manchester City, starting in 2016, saw him achieve five Premier League titles and the Champions League. Appointed club captain in 2022, his leadership and influence were evident as he led the team to a continental treble.
Gündoğan has represented Germany since 2011, captaining the squad in the 2024 UEFA European Championship.
Early life
İlkay Gündoğan, born on October 24, 1990, in Gelsenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, is of Turkish descent. His paternal grandfather was a guest worker from Balıkesir, Turkey, who relocated to Germany’s Ruhr region for mining. Gündoğan’s family dynamics reflect the challenges faced by immigrant families during that era.
Club career
Early career
Ilkay Gündoğan’s early football journey began in Gelsenkirchen, where he developed a passion for the game as a supporter of Schalke 04.
However, a setback due to growth problems forced him to step away from football, marking this period as one of his greatest disappointments.
Despite this, he persevered and emerged from VfL Bochum’s youth academy, joining their reserve team in 2008.
His breakthrough occurred in 2009 when he signed with 1. FC Nürnberg, where he made an impression in the Bundesliga, recorded his first assist against Bayern Munich on September 19, 2009, and scored his debut goal against the same team on February 20, 2010.
Borussia Dortmund
Significant achievements and challenges marked Ilkay Gündoğan’s tenure at Borussia Dortmund from 2011 to 2016.
Gündoğan signed a four-year contract with Borussia Dortmund on May 5, 2011. He immediately impacted in his first match during the 2011 DFL-Supercup against Schalke, where he successfully took a penalty despite the team losing.
His first goal for the club came on December 17, 2011, in a decisive 4–1 victory against SC Freiburg, marking the beginning of his significant contributions to the team.
In the 2012–13 season, Gündoğan emerged as a pivotal player, helping Dortmund reach the 2013 UEFA Champions League final. His critical equalizer from the penalty spot against Bayern Munich showcased his composure under pressure, although Dortmund ultimately lost the match 2–1.
In subsequent seasons, despite facing a back injury that sidelined him for a year, Gündoğan contributed significantly to the club.
He played a crucial role in Dortmund’s victory in the 2015 DFB-Pokal final and signed a contract extension in July 2015, committing to the club until June 2017. His journey at Dortmund solidified his reputation as an essential midfielder in European football.
Manchester City
In the 2016–2017 season, İlkay Gündoğan joined Manchester City on a four-year contract for an estimated £20 million, marking the first signing under manager Pep Guardiola.
He made a strong debut on September 14 against Borussia Mönchengladbach, contributing to a 4–0 victory and winning a penalty.
Gündoğan showcased his skills further by scoring in a 4–0 win over AFC Bournemouth and netting a brace against West Bromwich Albion.
However, on December 14, he suffered a significant setback, tearing his cruciate ligament, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season.
Significant achievements and milestones mark Ilkay Gündoğan’s tenure at Manchester City from 2017 to 2022. After recovering from a long-term injury, he returned on September 16, 2017, contributing to a 6–0 victory against Watford.
His first season goal came in December with a header against Tottenham, showcasing his offensive capabilities.
Notably, on March 4, 2018, Gündoğan set Premier League records for most passes attempted (174) and most completed (167) in a single match, surpassing Yaya Touré’s previous records.
His consistent performances led to a four-year contract extension in August 2019. Gündoğan played a pivotal role in the 2020–21 season, scoring 13 league goals and winning the Premier League Player of the Month twice consecutively.
His contributions culminated in a dramatic display on May 22, 2022, where he netted two goals in a crucial 3–2 victory over Aston Villa, securing the Premier League title for City.
Ilkay Gündoğan’s tenure as club captain began on August 14, 2022, succeeding Fernandinho. His leadership was pivotal during the 2022–23 season, highlighted by scoring both goals in a 2–1 victory against Leeds United on May 6, 2023, contributing to City’s 10th consecutive league win.
Gündoğan’s brilliance continued with two goals against Everton on May 14, showcasing his skill and importance.
He made history on June 3, 2023, by scoring the quickest goal in an FA Cup final, leading City to a 2–1 win over Manchester United. Following a successful campaign, Gündoğan departed City on June 26 after seven years.
Barcelona
On June 26, 2023, Gündoğan joined Barcelona on a two-year contract as a free agent. He netted his first goal for the club on October 28 during El Clásico, scoring in the sixth minute against Real Madrid.
Despite his effort, Barcelona lost 2–1, making Gündoğan the second oldest player to score in this fixture at 33 years and 4 days, following Sergio Agüero.
Return to Manchester City
On August 23, 2024, after spending a single season away from the club, Gündoğan rejoined Manchester City, signing a one-year deal.
Career Earnings Overview
Starting with Borussia Dortmund, İlkay Gündoğan’s earnings reflected the typical growth of a player moving through the ranks of top European football clubs. In 2013-2014, he earned a gross base salary of £1,190,901 at 22. Over time, his earnings steadily increased as he moved from one season to the next.
In the following seasons, from 2015-2016, he earned £4,358,190 with Borussia Dortmund, highlighting his prominent role at the German club.
During his time at Borussia Dortmund, he laid the foundation for an even more lucrative career in the English Premier League.
His earnings soared when he joined Manchester City in the Premier League in 2016. Starting at a weekly wage of £80,000, he earned an annual salary of £4,160,000.
This was a significant leap from his earlier contracts, demonstrating his growing stature as one of Europe’s top midfielders. His salary remained stable at this figure for the next three seasons, but his total adjusted gross value for these years showed further gains.
By 2019-2020, Gündoğan had solidified his place as a core member of Manchester City’s squad, and this earned him a new contract extension with a salary boost to £7,280,000 annually, which he would continue to earn until the 2022-2023 season.
Detailed Contract Data
Here’s a breakdown of his earnings across notable years in his career:
| Season | Gross P/W (GBP) | Gross P/Y (GBP) | Club |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | £230,000 | £11,960,000 | Manchester City |
| 2024-2025 | £76,177 | £3,961,223 | Barcelona |
| 2023-2024 | £304,547 | £15,836,447 | Barcelona |
| 2022-2023 | £140,000 | £7,280,000 | Manchester City |
| 2021-2022 | £140,000 | £7,280,000 | Manchester City |
| 2020-2021 | £140,000 | £7,280,000 | Manchester City |
| 2019-2020 | £140,000 | £7,280,000 | Manchester City |
| 2018-2019 | £80,000 | £4,160,000 | Manchester City |
| 2017-2018 | £80,000 | £4,160,000 | Manchester City |
| 2016-2017 | £80,000 | £4,160,000 | Manchester City |
| 2015-2016 | £83,811 | £4,358,190 | Borussia Dortmund |
| 2014-2015 | £26,800 | £1,393,607 | Borussia Dortmund |
| 2013-2014 | £22,902 | £1,190,901 | Borussia Dortmund |
The total earnings amassed by Gündoğan over his career, as presented in the contract data, highlight a combined career gross earnings of £68,567,117. This includes his total adjusted earnings and career progression, reflecting the steady growth of his financial stature.
Contracts and Earnings Breakdown
Gündoğan’s most significant contract came during the 2024-2025 season when he signed with Manchester City for one year. He earned an impressive weekly wage of £230,000, translating to an annual salary of £11,960,000.
During this period, his financial package at Manchester City marks the pinnacle of his career earnings, confirming his status as a top-tier player in world football.
Additionally, in the 2024-2025 season, Gündoğan simultaneously secured a contract with Barcelona, where his weekly wage was listed as £76,177, amounting to an annual salary of £3,961,223.
This combination of contracts for the 2024-2025 season brings Gündoğan’s total earnings to £15,921,223.
Contract Extensions and Milestones
One key factor in Gündoğan’s earnings has been his consistently securing contract extensions. In the 2019-2020 season, he signed a crucial contract extension with Manchester City, guaranteeing him an annual salary of £7,280,000. The total contract amounted to £109,200,000 over the entire duration.
The 2024-2025 season again saw Gündoğan sign for a significant salary with Manchester City, but his dual contract with Barcelona further expanded his earnings potential.
Transfer Fees and Market Value of İlkay Gündoğan
İlkay Gündoğan has had an illustrious career with multiple clubs across Europe, marking himself as one of the finest midfielders of his generation.
His journey through German clubs to international stardom is characterized by notable transfer fees and fluctuating market values, influenced by his performances, age, and contract situations.
Career Highlights and Early Development
Gündoğan began his career in the youth ranks of Schalke 04 before moving to Heßler 06 and SSV Buer. His potential was evident from a young age, leading to his promotion to VfL Bochum’s U17 and later the U19 teams.
- VfL Bochum (Youth Teams): Gündoğan started his formal football education at Heßler 06 Yth. Before moving to SSV Buer Yth. and later VfL Bochum. His market value was nominal, with no recorded transfer fees for these movements.
- First Transfer to 1. FC Nürnberg (2009): At 18, Gündoğan made his first professional move to 1. FC Nürnberg in February 2009. His market value had increased significantly at VfL Bochum U19, jumping from €50k in early 2008 to €100k by January 2009. Nürnberg recognized his promise, acquiring him for a fee of €850k, with Gündoğan valued at €100k.
The Rise to Prominence at Nürnberg and Dortmund
Once at 1. FC Nürnberg, Gündoğan quickly became a regular in the first team. His market value climbed steeply from €700k in August 2009 to €6.00m by September 2010, which reflected his growing importance in the team.
- Transfer to Borussia Dortmund (2011): In the summer of 2011, Gündoğan’s performances attracted the attention of Borussia Dortmund, one of Germany’s top clubs. Dortmund signed him for €5.50m, while his market value had climbed to €6.50m at the transfer time. This move marked the beginning of a highly successful period in his career.
- Market Value Growth (2011-2013): Gündoğan’s time at Borussia Dortmund was highlighted by exceptional domestic and European performances. His market value sharply rose, reaching €20.00m by March 2013 and increasing to €27.00m by June 2013. During this time, Dortmund won two Bundesliga titles, and Gündoğan became known for his composure, vision, and intelligence on the field.
A Move to the Premier League with Manchester City
By 2016, Gündoğan was one of Europe’s most highly regarded central midfielders. This led to his significant move to Manchester City, where he worked under Pep Guardiola, one of football’s most tactically astute managers.
- Transfer to Manchester City (2016): Gündoğan transferred to Manchester City for a fee of €27.00m, with his market value at that time recorded at €30.00m. Despite injury setbacks, he remained a crucial part of Guardiola’s squad, known for his versatility and tactical intelligence.
- Market Value Fluctuations (2016-2021): During his time at Manchester City, Gündoğan’s market value saw a series of rises and falls, fluctuating between €30.00m in early 2018 and €40.00m by the end of that year. His highest market value was reached in June 2019, when he was valued at €50.00m, reflecting his role in City’s domestic dominance and successful campaigns in the Champions League.
The Final Chapter: Barcelona
In 2023, after a long and decorated spell at Manchester City, Gündoğan moved to Barcelona on a free transfer.
Although his market value had dropped compared to his peak, the decision to join Barcelona marked a significant chapter in his career.
- Free Transfer to Barcelona (2023): Gündoğan’s move to Barcelona was free in July 2023, despite his market value being €20.00m. This was a calculated move for Barcelona, acquiring an experienced and tactical midfielder at no cost. By December 2023, Gündoğan’s market value had slightly dropped to €18.00m, reflecting his advancing age, though he remained a valuable asset for the club.
- Final Market Value (2024): As of June 2024, Gündoğan’s market value stands at €15.00m. Despite the drop in value due to his age, his experience, football intelligence, and leadership qualities make him a valuable player for any team he plays.
Analysis of Transfer Fees and Market Value
Gündoğan’s career has been characterized by several strategic moves, each reflecting his growing influence in football. Below is a summary of critical transfers and market value highlights:
| Date | Club | Market Value (€) | Transfer Fee (€) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 21, 2008 | VfL Bochum U19 | 50k | N/A |
| Feb 3, 2009 | 1. FC Nürnberg | 100k | 850k |
| Jul 1, 2011 | Borussia Dortmund | 6.50m | 5.50m |
| Jul 1, 2016 | Manchester City | 30.00m | 27.00m |
| Jul 1, 2023 | Barcelona | 20.00m | Free Transfer |
The increase in Gündoğan’s market value reflects the growth of his reputation in the football world, from his beginnings in Germany to his peak years in Manchester City.
His highest market value of €50.00m in 2019 demonstrates his importance during his prime years, while his recent free transfer to Barcelona signifies a late-career strategic move by the Catalan giants.
The total transfer fees over his career, amounting to €33.35m, may seem relatively low for a player of his caliber. This is primarily due to his free transfers in the latter stages of his career and the careful management of his career trajectory.
Despite the fluctuation in market value due to age and injuries, Gündoğan’s leadership, creativity, and ability to control the game continue to inspire football enthusiasts.
International career
Ilkay Gündoğan’s international career reflects a remarkable journey marked by significant milestones. He received his first call-up to the Germany senior team in August 2011 and made his debut on October 11, 2011, substituting for captain Philipp Lahm in a 3–1 win against Belgium.
His inclusion in the Euro 2012 squad highlighted his potential, although he did not play during the tournament. Gündoğan scored his first international goal on March 26, 2013, contributing to a 4–1 victory against Kazakhstan in a World Cup qualifier.
However, a back injury forced him to miss the 2014 World Cup, which Germany won. He returned to international play in March 2015, participating in the Euro 2016 qualifiers.
Unfortunately, he was sidelined due to injury for Euro 2016. Gündoğan was named in the squad for the 2018 World Cup and later selected for Euro 2020.
On November 10, 2022, he was part of the squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, scoring a penalty in their opening match.
In September 2023, he was appointed national team captain, leading Germany in Euro 2024, where he made history as the first German of Turkish descent to captain the team. Gündoğan announced his international retirement on August 19, 2024, closing a significant chapter in his career.
Style of play
Ilkay Gündoğan’s career has been marked by vision, athleticism, and leadership, earning him praise from notable managers. Pep Guardiola, his manager at Manchester City, described him as “one of the best players [he had] worked with,” highlighting his impact on the team.
Previously, under Jürgen Klopp at Borussia Dortmund, Gündoğan transitioned from a wide midfielder to a central role, showcasing his adaptability. Klopp noted his “intelligent” play and ability to fit into Dortmund’s “explosive” style through his creativity and tireless energy.
Despite sometimes struggling with injuries, Gündoğan excelled in possession-based systems, often dictating the tempo of matches. He was in various midfield roles at Manchester City, including holding positions.
While not always among the top scorers or assist providers, his ability to circulate possession and create space has garnered significant media recognition, underlining his crucial role in the team’s dynamics.
Personal life
Significant milestones and personal developments have marked Ilkay Gündoğan’s career. In 2022, he married Sara Arfaoui, and the couple welcomed their first child in 2023. Gündoğan’s familial ties extend into sports, as his cousin Naz Aydemir is a professional volleyball player.
His encounter with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in May 2018 sparked controversy when he referred to Erdoğan as “my president,” leading to criticism in Germany and adverse reactions from fans during national team matches.
Despite moving on from 1. FC Nürnberg, Gündoğan has maintained connections with the club and the local school where he completed his Abitur in 2011.
He cherishes his early career at Nürnberg, describing those years as among the happiest of his professional life, especially at 18/19.
Honors
İlkay Gündoğan, a distinguished midfielder, has etched his name into the annals of football history through a series of remarkable achievements.
His journey began with Borussia Dortmund, where he played an instrumental role in clinching the Bundesliga title in the 2011–12 season.
That same year, he added the DFB-Pokal trophy to his accolades, solidifying his reputation as a critical player in the team’s succeGündoğan’san’s prowess was further highlighted as he helped Dortmund reach the UEFA Champions League final in 2013, showcasing his talent on the grandest stage.
Transitioning to Manchester City, Gündoğan continued to shine, contributing to five Premier League titles between 2017 and 2023. His impact in domestic cups was equally significant, winning the FA Cup twice and the EFL Cup on four occasions.
The pinnacle of his club career came in the 2022-23 season when he lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy, proving his mettle to Europe’s elite.
Individually, Gündoğan has been recognized multiple times, including being named Footballer of the Year in Germany in 2023.
His consistent performances have earned him a place in prestigious teams of the season, reflecting his status as one of football’s finest.
Social Media Accounts
FAQs About Ilkay Gundogan
Is Gundogan going to Man City?
Manchester City has completed a one-year deal to re-sign Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona, subject to international clearance.
How many trophies has Gundogan won?
But Gundogan quickly pointed out that he still wants to succeed, adding 14 major trophies, including five Premier League titles and lifting the Champions League trophy on his last appearance.
How much did City buy Gundogan for?
Ilkay Gundogan transfer: Man City re-sign midfielder on free transfer after Barcelona exit. Manchester City have re-signed Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona on a free transfer.
Why did Gundogan leave Barca?
Amid all this uncertainty, he decided to call his old club. Gundogan wanted to know if there could be any chance of him returning to City. In his mind, if he had to look for a new challenge away from Barcelona, that was the only place he wanted to be.
How much did Gundogan cost Barcelona?
Barcelona agreed to sign Ilkay Gundogan from Manchester City on a free transfer. The midfielder will sign a three-year contract.
Did Ilkay Gundogan win the Champions League?
A week later, Gundogan lifted the Champions League as he captained the club to an historic treble. That proved to be his final match for City before moving to Catalonia, where he played 51 times in all competitions for Barcelona, who finished second in La Liga in his sole season at the Nou Camp.
Did Gundogan retire?
Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan announced his retirement from international football on Monday after leading his country at Euro 2024.
Did Barca get Gundogan for free?
Gundogan joined Barcelona on a free transfer last summer after his City contract expired. He signed a two-year deal, which was automatically extended by another 12 months after he featured in over 60 percent of their fixtures last season.
Conclusion
İlkay Gündoğan’s journey to financial success is impressive, with a net worth and salary that places him among the top earners in football. To stay updated on more celebrity net worths, visit FC Bayern Net Worth and leave your thoughts in the comments!
I’m Archie Rhind-Tutt, a sports correspondent for ESPN, specializing in German soccer, particularly the Bundesliga. My reporting brings in-depth analysis and engaging storytelling to a global audience. Additionally, I author FC Bayern Net Worth (fcbayernnetworth.com), a website similar to Celebrity Net Worth but focused exclusively on football players. There, I explore and analyze the financial aspects and net worth of football stars, providing insights into their earnings and financial decisions. My expertise in sports finance allows me to deliver detailed and compelling content for readers interested in the economic intricacies of the football world.
