In a startling revelation that will make Manchester City fans wince, £77 million defender Josko Gvardiol has disclosed the terrifying basketball injury that nearly ended his football career before it had properly begun.
The 21-year-old Croatian sensation, now regarded as one of world football's most promising defenders, suffered a serious head injury while playing basketball as a teenager that threatened to derail his dreams entirely.
The Accident That Changed Everything
"I was 16 and playing basketball with friends," Gvardiol recounted to The Mirror. "I fell and hit my head so hard that I was unconscious. When I woke up, I couldn't remember anything - not even my own name."
The incident resulted in a severe concussion and memory loss that left the young footballer's future hanging in the balance. Medical professionals delivered the devastating news that he might never play competitive football again.
The Long Road to Recovery
Gvardiol's determination saw him through a challenging rehabilitation process. "For three months, I wasn't allowed to do anything physical," he explained. "No training, no heading the ball - complete rest was essential."
The mental toll was equally significant. "Not knowing if I'd ever return to the pitch was terrifying. Football was my life, and suddenly it was being taken away from me."
From Near-Career End to Record Transfer
His remarkable comeback story saw him progress through Dinamo Zagreb's academy before securing a move to RB Leipzig. His performances in Germany and for Croatia's national team, particularly during their impressive 2022 World Cup campaign, caught the attention of Europe's elite clubs.
Manchester City ultimately won the race for his signature this summer, making him one of the most expensive defenders in football history with a £77 million transfer.
Gvardiol acknowledges the psychological impact of his injury remains: "Even now, I'm more cautious about head injuries. That experience changed my perspective on everything."
The defender's incredible journey from a life-threatening basketball court incident to the pinnacle of world football serves as a powerful testament to his resilience and determination.
