Man City Star Faces Lengthy Sideline Battle as Injury Takes Devastating Turn
Manchester City anticipate being without Mateo Kovačić until February at the earliest, as the midfielder requires additional surgery to address a persistent Achilles problem.
The Croatian international's injury troubles have restricted him to merely 37 minutes across all competitions this campaign, following his crucial contributions under Pep Guardiola during 2024-25 after Rodri suffered an ACL injury.
Guardiola had carefully reintegrated Kovačić into the squad last month following his summer operation, but the City boss has now revealed that the ex-Chelsea player will face another extended absence after experiencing renewed discomfort during his comeback.
"He will be sidelined for an extended period," Guardiola explained. "He continues to have ankle complications, with some calcification remaining. We'll be patient with him for the season's final stretch."
The Daily Mail's Jack Gaughan indicated that additional surgery would be required to resolve the ongoing problem, potentially sidelining the 31-year-old Kovačić until February or March. Positively, Nico González has made significant strides for the Citizens, while Guardiola can also rely on players like Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders in the defensive midfield position.
Sportske Novosti have offered additional information, stating that Kovačić is currently using a protective boot following his procedure last Friday. The operation reportedly proceeded successfully, with the midfielder scheduled to have his sutures removed in the coming week.
Despite potentially having a limited impact for City this season, there remains optimism that Kovačić will be pain-free and completely healthy for the 2026 World Cup. Croatia's head coach Zlatko Dalić remains confident about having the midfielder available in North America: "He [Kovačić] faces similar issues to those from four or five months prior. We're confident he'll join us for the World Cup.
"I'm hoping for his return by March. This must be challenging for him; both the injury and surgery are affecting him mentally."