Josko Gvardiol commits long-term future to Manchester City amid title pursuit

Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol has expressed his deep satisfaction with life at the Etihad Stadium, insisting he can envision himself remaining at the club for many years as City continue their pursuit of Premier League glory.

Speaking during an interview with Soccer Saturday, the Croatian international reflected on City’s recent form, the demanding festive schedule, and the relentless pressure of chasing Arsenal at the summit of the league table. Gvardiol highlighted the excitement within the squad, despite the physical and mental strain that comes with the busiest period of the English football calendar.

“We are on a really good run,” Gvardiol explained. “We are excited to face new opponents and different challenges. The schedule is tough, especially during this period, but this is the Premier League and we enjoy being part of it.”

Now in his third season at the club, Gvardiol admitted that both Manchester City and the city itself have become an integral part of his life. While the famously unpredictable Manchester weather remains a frequent topic of conversation, the defender made it clear that it has not diminished his affection for his surroundings.

“This club and this city have become part of me,” he said. “I really enjoy living here, especially the quieter town life. Of course, everyone talks about the weather, but honestly, I don’t mind it. I like it here a lot, and I hope I can stay for many years.”

Gvardiol also addressed the challenges of the festive fixture congestion, admitting that the lack of training time can be frustrating for players eager to develop further under Pep Guardiola. Recovery, preparation, and mental focus have taken priority as matches arrive every few days.

“At this stage, it’s difficult to train properly,” Gvardiol noted. “Every day is about recovery and being ready for the next 90 minutes. Of course, I would love more time to work with the manager and the staff, and to understand my teammates even better.”

Reflecting on his personal season, the 23-year-old acknowledged that injuries disrupted his early momentum. A lengthy spell on the sidelines tested his patience, but he now feels close to full fitness and ready to contribute consistently as City push forward.

“At the beginning of the season, I was injured for quite a while,” he said. “It’s hard when you’re not playing and watching from the stands. Now I finally feel fit again, even if there are still small issues. The most important thing is staying focused on the next game.”

Gvardiol emphasised the importance of a game-by-game mentality, particularly in a league as unforgiving as the Premier League. With fixtures coming thick and fast, there is little time to dwell on setbacks or dropped points.

“If you think too much about the table or how many points you are behind, it can affect you,” he explained. “In this league, there’s always another game in three days. You have to forget quickly and move on.”

The defender admitted that external pressure is unavoidable, with constant exposure to rival results through television, travel, and daily routines. However, he believes that elite players must learn how to block out noise and remain professional at all times.

“If you want to be at the top and achieve big goals, you have to work on yourself mentally,” Gvardiol added. “You need to stay calm, focused, and ready for what’s next.”

According to Gvardiol, this winning mentality is deeply ingrained within Manchester City’s dressing room and is driven by Guardiola’s influence. Every match, regardless of the opponent, is approached with the same hunger and intensity.

“The mindset comes from the manager, but also from every player,” he said. “We want to win every game. It’s not just about three points, it’s about building something special throughout the season.”

Conclusion

Josko Gvardiol’s comments underline both his personal commitment to Manchester City and the collective mentality that continues to define Pep Guardiola’s side. Despite injuries, fixture congestion, and intense title pressure, the Croatian defender appears fully invested in City’s long-term project — on and off the pitch — as the club aims to reclaim domestic supremacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long has Josko Gvardiol been at Manchester City?

Gvardiol is currently in his third season at Manchester City, having joined the club after establishing himself as one of Europe’s top young defenders.

Does Gvardiol see his future at Manchester City?

Yes. Gvardiol has openly stated that he can see himself staying at the club for many years and feels deeply connected to both the team and the city.

How has injury affected Gvardiol’s season?

Early-season injuries limited his availability for several months, but he now feels fit again and ready to contribute consistently.

What does Gvardiol say about Pep Guardiola’s influence?

Gvardiol credits Guardiola with instilling a relentless winning mentality, while also noting that the entire squad shares the same competitive mindset.