Saudi Pro League Makes Bold Move for Man City Star as Midfielder Reaches Crucial Decision
Manchester City's central midfielder Mateo Kovačić has reportedly attracted transfer attention from at least one Saudi Pro League outfit.
Kovačić has claimed every major honor in European club football during his successful tenures with Dinamo Zagreb, Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester City, having joined the Citizens in 2023.
The Croatian star experienced a significant increase in Premier League starting appearances from the 2023–24 to 2024–25 campaigns, largely due to Rodri's extended injury layoff. The Spanish midfielder's recent return to full fitness could potentially reduce Kovačić's expected playing opportunities going forward.
Fabrizio Romano revealed this week about a recent "inquiry" from Saudi Arabia. However, the player's stance remains one of "concentrating" on Manchester City. Likewise, the club is believed to have dismissed any notion of releasing him, eager to retain Kovačić within their roster.
The Citizens are experiencing a significant transformation, acquiring 11 new signings in 2025 alone. Simultaneously, substantial experience has departed through the losses of Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker and even veteran backup goalkeeper Scott Carson. Despite not being a guaranteed starter, Kovačić, at 31 years old with nearly 800 professional matches under his belt, continues to provide considerable value in that regard.
Pep Guardiola confronts perhaps his greatest managerial test this upcoming campaign. City are attempting to recover from their poorest Premier League placement (third) since the Catalan's inaugural season in 2016–17, doing so with a revamped roster.
In contrast, Liverpool have capitalized on their momentum, significantly bolstering the squad that secured last season's Premier League crown in what proved to be a comfortable victory.
Guardiola has previously expressed his plans to depart the Etihad Stadium upon his current deal's conclusion in 2027, potentially taking a sabbatical of up to 15 years from football.