Mateo Kovacic had to have surgery on a troublesome Achilles injury once the 24/25 season ended. The Croatian midfielder is yet to feature for Manchester City this season. Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s Champions League clash with Napoli, Pep Guardiola told the media that the return of Kovacic is edging closer. That is good news for Manchester City, who face a hectic schedule in the coming months.
Pep Guardiola revealed yesterday that Mateo Kovacic was nearing a return. The Manchester City manager also explained that he needs all his players fit and available before the effects of a busy schedule kick in. Speaking on Kovacic and his imminent return, plus needing players back, Guardiola said: “Kova is coming back soon. The squad is really good. Now we have a problem already with just 16 players. We need them back Ait-Nouri, Cherki, John (Stones)- when everyone is back, we can rotate and team on the bench, make a good impact. The fatigue will come soon, so we need to make everyone involved.”
Having Mateo Kovacic fit will give Pep Guardiola another midfield option for what is coming.
As Pep Guardiola stated, Manchester City need their full squad back. Playing every three or four days will take a toll on the City squad if the same players are called upon every game. The effects of this were seen last season as injuries, alongside a host of other factors, crippled Manchester City’s season. The hope is that Pep Guardiola’s squad will have players back around the international break.
The imminent return of Mateo Kovacic is also good news for Manchester City. The Croatian international figures to play an important role this season. Rodri’s return to full fitness is well-documented. Having Kovacic available for selection will allow City to give Rodri rest when needed. Tijjani Reijnders and Mateo Kovacic play similar roles. Having Kovacic fit will provide Reijnders with an opportunity to rest before the toll of a heavy workload hits.
Manchester City need to players back from injury. Pep Guardiola has stated why that is the case. Mateo Kovacic is seemingly close to returning so that is one player back that City desperately need.
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