Ilkay Gündoğan Biography: Wife, Age, Children, Net Worth, Salary, Stats, Nationality, Goals

Biography

Ilkay Gündoğan (born 24 October 1990) is a renowned German footballer renowned for his prowess as a midfielder, currently plying his trade with La Liga giants Barcelona and representing the German national team. 

Gündoğan‘s journey began with 1. FC Nürnberg in 2009, followed by a notable stint with Borussia Dortmund starting in 2011, during which he clinched both the 2011–12 Bundesliga and 2011–12 DFB-Pokal titles in his debut season.

Ilkay Gündoğan‘s exceptional talent and strategic prowess have established him as a key national and club figure. His adeptness in dictating play from the midfield and orchestrating goal-scoring opportunities has solidified his place in the German national squad. His tenure at Borussia Dortmund notably saw him clinch multiple domestic honors before moving to Barcelona in 2021.

Ilkay Gündoğan
Wiki Facts & About Data
Full Name:	Ilkay Gündoğan
Stage Name:	Gündoğan
Born:	24 October 1990 (age 33 years old)
Place of Birth:	Gelsenkirchen, Germany
Nationality:	German
Education:	N/A
Height:	1.8 m
Parents:	Irfan Gundogan, Ayten Gundogan
Siblings:	Ilker Gündogan
Spouse:	Sara Arfaoui (m. 2022)
Girlfriend • Partner:	N/A
Children:	Kais Gündoğan
Occupation:	Footballer
Net Worth:	$45 million (USD)

Early Life & Education

Born on October 24, 1990, in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, Ilkay Gündoğan is a professional footballer renowned for his skill on the pitch. He was raised by his parents, Irfan Gündogan and Ayten Gundogan, and grew up alongside his brother, Ilker Gündogan. 

Despite his flourishing soccer career, Ilkay Gündoğan also recognized the importance of education and pursued studies at Bertolt-Brecht-Schule in 2011.

Career

Growing up in Gelsenkirchen, Ilkay Gündoğan‘s soccer dreams were firmly rooted in his local team, Schalke 04. But life threw him a curveball when growth issues forced him to step away from the sport, leaving him disheartened. Even when Schalke came knocking again at 13, offering him a second chance, Gündoğan hesitated, afraid of facing disappointment again.

His soccer journey took a turn when he found his footing at VfL Bochum’s youth academy before making waves with 1. FC Nürnberg in 2009. There, he marked his Bundesliga debut with an assist against Bayern Munich, showing glimpses of his emerging talent. And soon after, he netted his first goal for Nürnberg, a sign of things to come.

But it was Borussia Dortmund that truly became his home in 2011. Ilkay Gündoğan‘s time with Dortmund was spectacular, with pivotal roles in their Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal victories. His standout performances, especially during the 2012–13 UEFA Champions League campaign, etched his name in Dortmund folklore as a midfield magician.

Injuries plagued his Dortmund stint, but Gündoğan‘s determination never wavered. Despite setbacks, he pledged his allegiance to the club, signing contract extensions that showcased his loyalty. His memorable contributions, including crucial goals and record-breaking passing feats, endeared him to fans and earned him accolades aplenty.

Then came his move to Manchester City in 2016, where he showcased his versatility and leadership under Pep Guardiola‘s tutelage. Despite a severe knee injury, his triumphant return saw him play a pivotal role in City’s Premier League triumphs, repeatedly proving his mettle.

In 2023, after seven memorable years at City, Ilkay Gündoğan embarked on a new adventure with Barcelona. His arrival injected experience and skill into the La Liga giants’ midfield, signaling a fresh chapter in his illustrious career.

Gündoğan‘s journey with the German national team has been remarkable on the international stage. From his nervy debut in 2011 to representing Germany at prestigious tournaments, he has been a cornerstone of the team. Despite grappling with injuries, his influence on the pitch and leadership qualities have made him an indispensable asset to his country.

Renowned for his vision, athleticism, and adaptability, Ilkay Gündoğan‘s style of play has won him admirers across the globe. Whether orchestrating play from midfield or breaking defensive lines with his incisive passes, his impact on the game is undeniable despite occasional setbacks on the injury front.

Awards & Nominations

Individual

• German Footballer of the Year (2023)

Club

• Champions League Winner (2022-23 with Manchester City)
• Premier League Champion (5 times with Manchester City)
• FA Cup Winner (2 times with Manchester City)
• EFL Cup Winner (4 times with Manchester City)
• German Champion (1 time with Borussia Dortmund)
• German Cup Winner (1 time with Borussia Dortmund)
• German Super Cup Winner (2 times with Borussia Dortmund)

Social Media

• Instagram handle:@ilkayguendogan
• Facebook handle: Ilkay Gündogan
• Twitter handle: Ilkay Gündogan (@IlkayGuendogan)

Personal Life

In 2022, Ilkay Gündoğan tied the knot with Sara Arfaoui, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Their joy doubled with the arrival of their first child, a son named Kais Gündoğan, born in March 2023.

Gündoğan‘s family tree boasts talent beyond his own soccer prowess. His cousin, Naz Aydemir, shines as a professional volleyball player, adding to the family’s impressive athletic legacy.

Net Worth

Ilkay Gündoğan is a talented and successful football player. His skills and dedication have earned him a net worth of $45 million, mostly from his time playing for Barcelona. 

As of now, İlkay Gündoğan‘s weekly earnings stand at €360,577 gross. On an annual basis, he rakes in €18,750,000 gross.