Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic has given fans a dual surprise, sharing a positive update on his long-term injury while simultaneously debuting a strikingly different new hairstyle.
Injury Setbacks and Recovery Timeline
The 31-year-old Croatian international has endured a frustrating season, managing just four minutes of Premier League action amid persistent fitness problems. Kovacic initially underwent surgery on his achilles ahead of the Club World Cup last summer, making brief substitute appearances against Everton and Villarreal in October before suffering another significant setback.
After feeling discomfort in the same area, the midfielder required a second surgical procedure. Manager Pep Guardiola later disclosed that Kovacic had also been struggling with an ankle issue, specifically mentioning "a little calcification still there" that would keep the player sidelined for an extended period.
Guardiola confirmed in October that the Champions League winner faced approximately four months out, meaning Kovacic isn't expected back until the season's final stages.
Social Media Reveal and Fan Reaction
On Tuesday, Kovacic broke his silence with an Instagram story that showed his strapped-up leg alongside the caption expressing he was 'happy to be back at club camp'. However, it was his dramatically changed appearance that truly captured attention.
The former Chelsea and Real Madrid star, known for his short hair throughout his career, now sports long, wavy locks. The transformation sparked immediate reaction across social media platforms, with multiple Manchester City fan accounts sharing the image.
Supporters expressed their astonishment on X, with comments ranging from "Who's this??? Hahaha" to "WHERE HAS THIS BEAUTIFUL HAIR BEEN?". One fan even confused him with award-winning Irish actor Cillian Murphy, posting: "That's Cillian Murphy, where is Kovacic".
International Concerns and Future Prospects
The injury situation has raised concerns at international level, with Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic previously expressing hope that the midfielder "doesn't miss the World Cup" next summer. Dalic acknowledged the psychological toll the repeated surgeries have taken on the player.
Despite these worries, there's strong optimism Kovacic could return in time for Croatia's March international fixtures. Dalic stated last month: "We believe he'll be with us at the World Cup. I'd like him to be back in March. It must be tough for him. The injury and the surgery are taking a psychological toll on him. I hope Kovacic gets through it all."
For now, Manchester City fans will continue to monitor his recovery progress while getting accustomed to their midfielder's surprising new look.
