Manchester City’s bid to reclaim the Premier League title has been dealt an early setback with the news that star midfielder Mateo Kovacic is set to miss the start of the next season after undergoing Achilles surgery. The Croatian international’s absence will undoubtedly be a blow to Pep Guardiola’s plans as the club aims for a strong start to the 2025-2026 campaign.
Kovacic Undergoes Achilles Surgery, Ruled Out for Months
Manchester City confirmed that Mateo Kovacic recently underwent surgery for an Achilles injury. The club statement indicated that he will “spend the summer rehabilitating from the operation,” effectively ruling him out of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup and, crucially, the initial stages of the 2025-2026 Premier League season. Reports suggest a recovery period of around three months, meaning he will be absent for a significant portion of pre-season and the opening league fixtures.
Kovacic was a vital component of Guardiola’s midfield this past season, making 42 appearances across all competitions and contributing seven goals. His ability to link play, press effectively, and provide a threat from midfield will be sorely missed as City look to assert their dominance from the get-go.
Impact on Pre-Season and Club World Cup
The injury means Kovacic will be unavailable for City’s pre-season preparations and their participation in the expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. This tournament, which kicks off in June, was seen as an opportunity for the squad to gel and build momentum ahead of the domestic season. His absence will force Guardiola to adjust his midfield strategy and rely on other options.
Challenges for the Premier League Campaign
While Manchester City boasts a deep squad, losing a player of Kovacic’s experience and quality, especially in the demanding early weeks of the Premier League, presents a challenge. The Premier League is a marathon, not a sprint, and any early dropped points can prove costly in the tightly contested title race. Guardiola will need to find effective cover and ensure the team maintains its intensity and tactical discipline without a key figure in the middle of the park.
The news serves as an early reminder of the physical demands of top-flight football and the unpredictable nature of injuries, which can significantly impact a club’s aspirations even before a ball is kicked in the new season.
