A Forgotten Midfielder Emerges as a Key Squad Piece
Mateo Kovacic's 2025-26 season was one to forget, marred by a troublesome Achilles issue that limited him to just nine appearances in all competitions for Manchester City. Those outings amounted to a mere 242 minutes on the pitch, a frustrating return for a player of his calibre.
Yet the 2026 FIFA World Cup offered a reminder of his enduring quality. With Croatia, Kovacic delivered a strong campaign, demonstrating that he remains a quality midfielder when fully fit.
What Kovacic Brings
His ability to drive the ball forward with powerful dribbling from midfield, coupled with defence-splitting passing, could be exactly what Enzo Maresca needs to call upon. Kovacic always puts in a shift when called upon, and his effort can never be questioned. There is room for that type of player in the Manchester City squad.
Pairing him with Elliot Anderson, for instance, could allow Kovacic to operate in his preferred midfield role, giving the team a different dimension in the middle of the park.
A Changing Squad
City have lost a host of experienced players already this summer, making Kovacic one of the more senior members of the squad. Given that exodus, his experience could be crucial. Sam Lee reported in the Athletic's Transfer DealSheet segment earlier this week that a summer exit was considered likely, but also noted that Kovacic has one year remaining on his contract.
That contract situation means he could be a useful midfield option for Maresca next season. No one is advocating for Kovacic to become a consistent starter, but as an important squad player, his value is clear.
With his experience and ability, Kovacic may be more important to Enzo Maresca's side than first thought.
Kovacic remains a more than useful midfielder. When the going gets tough, his experience could be something that City turn to next season.