Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has successfully triggered a one-year contract extension with the club, but doubts surrounding his long-term future persist despite the automatic renewal.

Gundogan, a German international who made the move from Barcelona back to Manchester City last summer, originally signed a one-year contract with the option of an additional year based on his appearances. Given his consistent performances this season, the clause in his contract was activated, securing his place at City until the summer of 2026. This automatic extension has confirmed his continued presence at the club for at least another season. However, there is still ambiguity about what lies beyond that, as the situation could be reassessed in the summer.

City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, confirmed the extension during a press conference, stating that Gundogan has one more year remaining on his contract. "He has one more year contract, definitely,” Guardiola said to reporters. “What’s going to happen in the summer, I don’t know, but he has one more year contract now.” Guardiola also pointed out that while Gundogan has extended his stay, the club is facing some upcoming squad changes, and his future could still be subject to further negotiations as Manchester City assesses its roster for the next season.

The midfielder, who has been pivotal to Manchester City’s midfield, has recently rediscovered his top form and has started the last five matches, with his performances receiving praise from Guardiola. Gundogan’s influence in recent games, especially his leadership and contributions in the center of the park, have been critical to City’s ongoing efforts in securing Champions League qualification and aiming for success in the FA Cup.

Despite the automatic extension, the situation regarding Gundogan’s long-term future at the club remains uncertain. While he is expected to be a crucial part of Guardiola's plans for the short term, the potential departure of key players, such as Kevin De Bruyne, could lead to further changes in the squad, and there is still a chance that Gundogan could leave the club this summer if a mutual decision is reached. Therefore, while his contract has been extended, the overall outlook for his future with Manchester City is still up in the air, with his situation likely to be evaluated again in the coming months. The midfielder’s future may depend on several factors, including City’s transfer dealings and whether Gundogan feels the time is right for a new challenge.