Shinji Kagawa’s time with Manchester United has come to an end after Borussia Dortmund signed their former player on a four-year deal.

The Bundesliga club announced that the Japan international midfielder had rejoined them on Sunday afternoon, ending a two-year stay at Old Trafford.

"The chance presented itself over the last few days to make the signing of Shinji Kagawa from Manchester United," Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc said. "Of course we chose to sign this quality player again."

Since joining United in the summer of 2012 – signed by Alex Ferguson – Kagawa struggled to reproduce the form he displayed in his first spell at Dortmund, which started when he joined them from Cerezo Osaka in 2010.

The 25-year-old made 57 appearances for United and scored six goals, including a hat-trick against Norwich, but failed to convince the club he was the playmaker they thought they had signed.

“I said on the day of my departure that my story with Borussia Dortmund was not completed,” Kagawa told Dortmund’s official website.

“I wanted to realise my Premier League dream but now I’m happy to be back in Dortmund; in this great team, the unique environment. Dortmund is like a family. I am proud they have never forgotten me and I can belong again.”

Kagawa has been restricted to just one appearance under new United manager Louis van Gaal this season, that coming in their 4-0 Capital One Cup defeat against Milton Keynes Dons.

United had still to confirm Kagawa’s departure but its impact is unlikely to be felt in the wake of Angel di Maria’s recent arrival.