Josko Gvardiol has admitted that watching Manchester City's intense Premier League title battle with Arsenal has been a nerve-wracking experience. The defender spent four months on the sidelines recovering from a fractured right leg, during which time Pep Guardiola's side has been locked in a fierce contest with Mikel Arteta's Arsenal for the English championship.
Gvardiol's Early Return to Action
Gvardiol made his comeback ahead of schedule in City's 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Wednesday night, a win that reduced Arsenal's lead to just two points. Reflecting on his time watching from afar, the Croatia international admitted it was a strain. "It's been stressful. Really stressful," he said. "It's even more stressful when you are sitting on the bench, or behind the bench in the stands because you know that you cannot do much."
Now back with the team, Gvardiol feels better equipped to handle the pressure. "Now, once I'm back with the team, I know that every time I get an opportunity, every time I come on, I have to give my best. So I would say now it's easier to handle the pressure," he added.
Overcoming a Season-Threatening Injury
The 24-year-old feared his season might be over when he suffered the injury during a match against Chelsea at the start of 2026. However, he worked tirelessly to return quicker than anticipated. "It's been four months. I thought that it was going to be longer, but I think four months is more than enough. It's normally between four and six months. As you can see, I've worked really hard. I'm happy that I've been through that process of rehab," Gvardiol explained.
He viewed the setback as a challenge. "I took it as a challenge, something new in my career." Now fully fit, Gvardiol is focusing on helping City in their final push for trophies, starting with the FA Cup final on Saturday. "There are three games left, starting with the FA Cup final on Saturday. Now we need to recover and be ready," he said.
World Cup Ambitions
Looking ahead, Gvardiol is also targeting the World Cup with Croatia, who have been drawn in the same group as England. He believes the timing of his injury might leave him fresher for the tournament. "I'm going to be ready for the World Cup. The timing of the injury means I might feel fresher," he concluded.
