A double update concerning the latest surrounding the recovery processes being undertaken by two Manchester City stars has been offered through their national team.
The injury situations of City pair Joško Gvardiol and Mateo Kovačić have been major talking points during the 2025/26 campaign, with both players enduring lengthy spells away from competitive action.
Their absences have tested squad depth at crucial points of the season, particularly during a congested winter schedule, while the defender’s extended absence forced action in the January transfer window through the signing of Marc Guehi and recall of Max Alleyne from loan.
For Pep Guardiola, the ongoing unavailability of such key figures has required adaptation, and while the City manager has welcomed encouraging signs from other injured players, both Croatian internationals remain in the medical department.
However, speaking with Vecernji – as translated and relayed by Sport Witness – the Croatian football association (HNS) has provided a fresh update surrounding Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic through their head of medical services, Tomislav Vlahović.
On the subject of Manchester City’s Croatian central defender, Vlahović said, “We hope that Joško will recover in time for the World Cup. We believe this is realistic.
“You never know how things will develop during rehabilitation, but our hope is strong.”
And concerning the veteran midfielder at the Etihad Stadium, the latest from Vlahović highlighted, “I would say we think he will be ready for the World Cup, and probably even earlier.
“It is a complex injury and treatment, and things are being monitored on a daily basis. The recovery is going well.”
Gvardiol’s long-term recovery continues after the defender suffered a fractured right tibia in early January during the Premier League clash with Chelsea, with the club mindful of the seriousness of the setback and the importance of avoiding any rushed return to action.
There is however growing optimism around Kovačić’s trajectory, with the midfielder having now resumed individual on-pitch training, and Guardiola speaking positively about his progress.
The Catalan coach has also recently highlighted how much he has missed the Croatian’s ability to connect play, and suggesting that a return before the end of the campaign could provide a timely boost in the decisive months ahead.