Mateo Kovacic Faces New Surgery as Guardiola Confirms Extended Layoff

Croatia’s coach has voiced concern over the midfielder’s World Cup availability.

Overview

Pep Guardiola said Kovacic will be out for a while due to ankle calcification and indicated City will wait for him for the latter part of the season.
After Achilles surgery in June, Kovacic returned for two substitute appearances before a setback linked to the same area forced renewed intervention.
Manchester Evening News reported he needs further surgery, with a tentative expectation of a February return that remains dependent on recovery.
Zlatko Dalic said he hopes Kovacic can be back by March but warned the situation raises doubts over his participation at the 2026 World Cup.
With Kovacic and Rodri sidelined, City have leaned on other midfielders, with Nico Gonzalez taking on greater responsibility in recent matches.