İlkay Gündoğan denied transfer speculation surrounding his future at Galatasaray, stating he plans to remain with the club beyond the winter transfer window.
Speaking to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo ahead of a Champions League match against Barcelona, the 35-year-old midfielder addressed reports suggesting he could leave the Turkish club. "Transfer rumors are not true. I want to stay here after the winter transfer period and do everything I can to win another championship with Galatasaray," Gündoğan said.
The veteran player has received limited playing time this season, appearing in only two matches across all competitions for a total of 11 minutes. His reduced role prompted speculation about a potential departure during the January transfer window.
Gündoğan's comments came after a match in which he drew attention for a pointed response when asked if he was ready for the Barcelona game. "Why would I be ready when I'm not playing?" he replied, according to reports. His wife, Sara Gündoğan, had previously made a related statement, saying: "If you want to know why he's not playing, ask his coach, not me."
These remarks fueled discussion about whether Gündoğan would be moved on by the club. Technical director Okan Buruk's team selection decisions also drew scrutiny. In Galatasaray's 3-1 victory over Kasımpaşa, Buruk opted to start Renato Nhaga in midfield rather than Gündoğan, a choice interpreted by some observers as a signal regarding the experienced player's standing within the squad.
Despite the limited minutes and speculation, Gündoğan reiterated his commitment to the club's objectives for the remainder of the season.