Pep Guardiola has revealed that Josko Gvardiol’s demanding schedule this season prompted a serious injury warning earlier in the campaign, as Manchester City continue to manage the physical strain placed on key players across multiple competitions.
The Manchester City boss addressed growing concerns surrounding player fatigue, using Gvardiol’s situation as an example of how relentless football at both club and international level can take its toll — even on the fittest and most talented athletes.
Now in his third season at the Etihad Stadium, the Croatian defender has become one of Guardiola’s most trusted options, regularly alternating between centre-back and left-back roles depending on tactical demands. However, this very versatility has contributed to his heavy workload and subsequent risk of burnout.
Since arriving from RB Leipzig for £77 million, Gvardiol has played a staggering number of minutes for both Manchester City and Croatia. His commitments across Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, and international fixtures have pushed his physical limits. Guardiola and his staff have therefore adopted a more cautious approach this season, keen to avoid long-term injuries.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Guardiola admitted that signs of fatigue had been evident earlier this season but expressed confidence in Gvardiol’s youthful resilience.
“He’s young, his physicality [is strong], but we cannot forget that last season he was maybe one of the most important players in terms of playing and playing,” said Guardiola. “After that, he suffered it — in pre-season, or at the end of the season, during the Club World Cup. At the beginning of this season, he had some problems with injuries in the knees, and he’s now getting better.”
The Spaniard continued, “He’s so young. His physicality is outstanding, and he can play in two roles perfectly. But from my point of view, he still has a big margin to improve as a player. The good thing is, he’s incredibly coachable — he listens, learns, and wants to get better. That attitude will take him far.”
Guardiola’s comments underline a clear message: City are wary of overexerting one of their brightest defensive talents. With John Stones and Nathan Aké returning to fitness, the manager could now look to rotate Gvardiol more frequently during the demanding winter schedule, ensuring his long-term availability.
Despite the warning, the Croatian international remains a crucial part of Guardiola’s defensive plans. His maturity, positional flexibility, and professionalism have made him indispensable, and City’s long-term strategy likely involves protecting him as his role within the squad continues to expand.
FAQ
- Q: What injury warning did Pep Guardiola issue about Josko Gvardiol?
A: Guardiola revealed that Gvardiol showed early signs of fatigue and knee issues due to his heavy workload last season and during pre-season tournaments.
- Q: How has Gvardiol been used by Manchester City this season?
A: Gvardiol has featured regularly as both a centre-back and left-back, playing a key role in Pep Guardiola’s tactical setups across all competitions.
- Q: Will Manchester City rest Gvardiol in upcoming fixtures?
A: Guardiola hinted that City could rotate Gvardiol more often, especially with John Stones and Nathan Aké now available to share defensive duties.
- Q: How important is Gvardiol to Manchester City’s long-term plans?
A: Gvardiol remains a vital part of City’s future under Guardiola, who praised his attitude, versatility, and willingness to improve.
Conclusion
Josko Gvardiol’s immense value to Manchester City is clear — but so too is the importance of managing his physical limits. Pep Guardiola’s remarks reflect the fine balance between development and preservation for young stars operating at the game’s highest level. As the season progresses, City’s ability to rotate effectively could be crucial in keeping Gvardiol fit, sharp, and central to their ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.
