Josko Gvardiol has committed his future to Manchester City by signing a new long-term contract that extends his stay at the club until 2031, with an option for an additional year. The 24-year-old Croatia international, who joined City from RB Leipzig in 2023 for £77 million, becomes the third player in a week to renew his contract following Phil Foden and Abdoukodir Khusanov.
Gvardiol had attracted interest from Real Madrid during the summer transfer window, but the defender chose to remain at Manchester City, highlighting his contentment with the club and its environment. Since his arrival, he has made 122 appearances, contributing to City's Premier League title in 2024. Despite missing a significant portion of last season due to a broken leg sustained in January, Gvardiol returned to action in May and participated in Croatia’s World Cup campaign.
Speaking about his decision, Gvardiol expressed strong confidence in the squad's potential and praised the club's support and fanbase. “I have everything I need, and I’ve said many times I really like it here in Manchester. We’ve achieved a lot together, and my only wish is we continue that way,” he stated. He also welcomed the appointment of new City manager Enzo Maresca, under whom he hopes to contribute further. “I haven’t met him before. He’s one of the best, and we’re really happy he is here,” Gvardiol added, reflecting on Maresca’s reputation and previous success.
Manchester City’s Director of Football, Hugo Viana, described Gvardiol as an outstanding professional and one of the best defenders globally. Viana emphasized the defender’s versatility, physical attributes, and attacking qualities as key reasons for the club’s desire to secure his future. “Josko epitomizes what we want in our defenders,” Viana said, praising his determination and professionalism as aligned with the club’s ambitions.
The club is currently preparing for a preseason tour in Asia under Maresca’s leadership, aiming to build on recent successes and challenge for major honours. Additionally, Manchester City confirmed that Rodri, the Spanish midfielder and 2022 World Cup winner, recently underwent successful back surgery and will begin a rehabilitation period. Rodri, who has one year remaining on his contract, has also been linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Belgium winger Jeremy Doku, who is on international duty, is also expected to sign a contract extension upon his return, signaling City’s ongoing focus on retaining key personnel as they look toward the upcoming campaign.