Gündogan's anger at Galatasaray: From European top tier to bench banquet

While Ilkay Gündogan was for years the strategic heart of Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City and FC Barcelona, today he sits as a permanent reserve at Galatasaray Istanbul on the sidelines – a stark contrast that the current 2026/27 season makes clear.

From European Top Level to the Bench Banquet

Ferda Demir/GettyImages documented Gündogan's rise to the “brain” in midfield of top clubs, where he stood for strategic dominance at the highest European level. In the current season, the 35‑year‑old, 82‑cap German international, however, has received only eleven league minutes for the Turkish league champions.

Neither in the domestic Süper Lig nor on the international stage does he play a notable role under head coach Okan Buruk. After the 3‑1 away win at Kasimpasa, Gündogan again had to watch the game from the bench for over 90 minutes.

Frustration Quote and Coach Reaction

When reporters asked him about the upcoming Champions League duel against his former club FC Barcelona, the playmaker replied dryly: “I’m not playing – why should I be ready?” The remark sparked strong waves in the Turkish media and was interpreted as an open rebellion against the coaching staff.

Coach Okan Buruk immediately tried to defuse the situation. He said publicly: “I think Ilkay’s statement was misunderstood. The boy may have been a bit tense after the game because he warmed up and then wasn’t substituted in. I didn’t attach much importance to it, because Ilkay trains well and is waiting to play.”

Gündogan’s frustration reveals the discrepancy between his former role as a key player at Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City and FC Barcelona and his current position at Galatasaray Istanbul, where he receives little playing time.

The situation shines a light on the challenges that even experienced internationals from DFB history must face in new leagues when the level and expectations suddenly drop.