After a fine first season at the Club where he helped City win an historic fourth Premier League title in a row, the Croatian’s role this term has, if anything, become even more crucial in the wake of the season-ending ACL injury sustained by Rodrigo in September.
In the Spaniard’s absence, Pep Guardiola has largely turned to the vastly experienced Kovacic to be deployed in the key holding midfield role.
With the recently crowned Ballon d’Or winner Rodrigo sidelined until next term, Kovacic’s experience and big game know-how will prove vital over the remainder of the campaign.
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He admits it’s a demanding challenge - but one he is eager to help fulfil.
“It’s not easy – it’s a big task,” Kovacic pointed out.
“It’s a pleasure as well to have this kind of pressure and to have a big role in the team.
“Of course, we miss some players which is never easy - some great players who have had a lot of success here.
“It’s not easy but I hope they will come back soon and stronger from their injuries so that we can be all together again.
“There is nothing better than having all the team around and fighting together for success.”
Kovacic joined City from Chelsea in the summer transfer window of 2023, during which period fellow Croatian international Josko Gvardiol also moved to the Etihad, in his case from RB Leipzig.
In the subsequent 18 months, the pair have forged a special rapport both on and off the pitch.
And Kovacic admits having such a familiar figure alongside him in the dressing room has only helped add to his enjoyment at City.
“Amazing. It’s always nice to have a Croatian guy next to you,” Mateo added.
“Me and Josko have created a strong bond together.
“He’s a little bit younger than me but we speak a lot, and we like to be together when we are not on the training ground too.
“Our families now know each other as well.
“It’s nice to have a friend here – I hope we can both play a long time together on the pitch.”
