Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol spoke about his future after interest emerged from Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
Josko Gvardiol made his return for Manchester City in the victory over Crystal Palace
Josko Gvardiol made his return for Manchester City in the victory over Crystal Palace(Image: Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
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Josko Gvardiol said he has everything he needs to be happy at Manchester City but stopped short of committing his future to the club. The Croatian defender addressed transfer speculation without shutting it down as he prepares for the World Cup.
City have been hoping to tie Gvardiol down to a new long-term deal, given his contract runs out in the summer of 2028. They are still looking to do that but have not yet been able to and in recent days Barcelona and Bayern Munich have been linked with a move for the 24-year-old.
Gvardiol is looking to shine on the biggest stage again this summer with Croatia, having worked hard to come back from a broken leg in January that could have ruled him out of the World Cup. His start against Crystal Palace came just over four months after suffering his injury and the centre-back has been able to join up with his national team as they look to punch above their weight again.
Asked about his future while in the Croatia camp, Gvardiol was happy to address the rumours and talk about how content he is with his situation at the Etihad. At the same time, he still left a question mark for what will come after the World Cup.
"We've all seen various rumours coming from every direction. I'm happy at Man City, I have everything I need. Before the injury I played every match, almost full minutes. After the World Cup we'll see what happens next," he said.
City players will have to move on this summer with the first change in manager at the club for ten years after Pep Guardiola chose to end his stay at the Etihad. Enzo Maresca will replace him, and Gvardiol trusts that the club will get it right to keep the team where they need to be.
"Unfortunately he [Guardiola] decided his journey would end. Since he arrived, we've all seen how many trophies he lifted. We learned a lot. Everyone who had chance to work with him became a better player and person. I'm sure Manchester City will choose the right new coach and continue where we left off.”