Josko Gvardiol Admits Jokes Will Ramp Up at Manchester City as 2026 World Cup Nears

Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol has admitted that friendly banter inside the City dressing room is expected to increase as the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws closer, with Croatia set to face England in the group stages of the tournament.

The 23-year-old Croatian international is widely expected to represent his country in North America next summer, with matches scheduled across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Having already earned 46 caps for Croatia, Gvardiol is fast becoming one of the leaders of the national side as they prepare for another major international challenge.

Group L will see Croatia go head-to-head with England, setting up an intriguing clash that could involve several Manchester City teammates lining up against one another. Alongside Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic could also feature for Croatia if fit, while England’s squad may include City stars such as John Stones, Phil Foden, and Nico O’Reilly.

The fixture naturally brings back memories of recent encounters between the two nations. England edged Croatia 1-0 at the 2021 UEFA European Championship, with former Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling scoring the decisive goal. Those past meetings have only added extra spice to the upcoming World Cup showdown.

Speaking to ESPN, Gvardiol revealed that while the jokes have not yet started, he expects the atmosphere to change as the tournament approaches. He explained that the playful mind games are part of football culture, especially when club teammates are set to become international rivals.

“Not yet, maybe a month before it starts,” Gvardiol said. “I’m happy that I’m going to see them. Hopefully all of them will be in the team.” His comments suggest a sense of excitement rather than tension, highlighting the mutual respect shared among the players.

Gvardiol also reflected on past international tournaments, recalling his first European Championship and coming up against familiar faces from the City squad. He mentioned duels with players like Kalvin Phillips, John Stones, Phil Foden, and Kyle Walker, noting how those experiences helped shape his development at the highest level.

Croatia’s recent World Cup history adds further intrigue to the matchup. After reaching the final in 2018 and the semi-finals in 2022, where they were eventually beaten by Argentina, the Vatreni remain one of the most competitive sides on the global stage.

Conclusion

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, Josko Gvardiol’s comments underline the unique dynamic that exists within top club squads like Manchester City, where teammates today can become rivals tomorrow. While friendly jokes and banter are expected to grow closer to the tournament, the anticipation surrounding Croatia’s clash with England reflects mutual respect, shared history, and the excitement of another major international battle on football’s biggest stage.