Mateo Kovacic is set to remain at Manchester City for the upcoming season following discussions with the club's hierarchy. The Croatian midfielder, who has just one year left on his contract, had been linked with a return to Inter but has been assured he will be part of Enzo Maresca's squad at the Etihad.
Kovacic's commitment
Speaking to reporters in Hong Kong, Kovacic revealed he never sensed any uncertainty from the club regarding his future and is content to stay in Manchester for another year. After missing most of last season due to an Achilles injury requiring two separate surgeries, he is eager to make up for lost time and prove his value to Maresca.
"I didn't feel the question marks from them. I spoke with them, it was that they count on me, which was important for me to hear that from them," he said. "And now, like I said, for the players it's always on you to show your best version, because if you're playing good, the manager will put you first."
Midfield clarity and ongoing uncertainty
Kovacic's decision provides some clarity to City's midfield situation, but much remains unresolved. Rodri's future is still uncertain amid strong interest from Real Madrid, and while the club is pursuing Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, the futures of Tijjani Reijnders, Nico Gonzalez, and Rico Lewis are also in question.
More changes are expected at the Etihad, but the most significant shift has already occurred with Pep Guardiola's departure after a decade and Maresca's arrival. The Catalan's legacy is a tough act to follow, yet there is a renewed atmosphere in the squad as they begin a new chapter under Maresca.
"City and Pep is a connection that you feel will never end and it lasted for ten years," said Kovacic. "Especially for the players that were longer with him it was different because you are used to one style of football, one style of training and now, it's something different but I think it's also nice to change and to experience something else, so it will do good for sure."
