Man City Star Josko Gvardiol's World Cup Dreams Hang in Balance After Devastating Injury Blow
Manchester City's defender Joško Gvardiol is set to have an operation following a leg fracture sustained during the Premier League match against Chelsea this past weekend, though he remains focused on being fit for Croatia's 2026 World Cup campaign.
Gvardiol was helped off the field by Chelsea skipper Reece James early in the second period at the Etihad Stadium. Medical assessments on Monday revealed the defender had sustained a tibial break in his right leg requiring surgical intervention.
No specific timeline has been established for Gvardiol's comeback, with further details likely following the completion of his operation. Nevertheless, concerns exist that the 23-year-old, who has successfully adapted from left-back to central defense, may face an extended absence.
"This represents a challenging period," Gvardiol shared on X regarding his injury diagnosis.
"However, it won't characterize who I am," he continued. "I understand my identity and my origins.
"To the Cityzens, I appreciate your unwavering backing. You have my affection, and I'll work tirelessly each day to come back more resilient, as a City fighter."
'My Heart Beats for Croatia'
Gvardiol's primary drive centers on being ready for this summer's World Cup tournament.
Approximately five months remain in the 2025–26 campaign through late May, with the World Cup commencing in June. Gvardiol plays a crucial role for Croatia's national team, which is anticipated to perform strongly once more, following their second and third-place results in 2018 and 2022 respectively, scheduled to meet England, Panama and Ghana in group play.
"My heart beats for Croatia," he declared in a subsequent message. "Always! I will emerge again, superior to before! For my team. For my teammates at both club and international levels. For my nation. For Croatia."
Man City Centre Back Crisis Could Accelerate Transfer Plans
Losing Gvardiol, potentially for the remainder of the campaign, represents a significant setback, though it's not the only defensive concern for Manchester City. Rúben Dias also couldn't finish the Chelsea encounter, withdrawn late due to a muscular problem.
Dias is now anticipated to be sidelined for up to six weeks, with his unavailability creating substantial challenges for Pep Guardiola's central defensive options.
With John Stones sidelined since early December without a confirmed return date, and Nathan Aké—according to Guardiola himself—only capable of restricted playing time, this leaves Abdukodir Khusanov as the sole completely healthy center-back in the senior squad.
Manuel Akanji is currently on loan at Inter without a recall option, while Vitor Reis and Juma Bah are with Girona and Nice respectively, and are understood to be completing those loan spells.
City have chosen to bring back 20-year-old academy product Max Alleyne from Watford, but the defensive shortage might compel the club to act in the transfer window. This situation could expedite a move for Marc Guéhi, who is expected to become a free agent in July but is required immediately.