“I wouldn’t be happy” – Josko Gvardiol reveals start to Manchester City season that would disappoint him

Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol has revealed the sort of start to the 2024/25 season that would leave him unhappy on a personal note.

The Croatian defender is expected to continue his development at Manchester City by operating predominantly in the left-back role this season, having been trained into the system by Pep Guardiola upon joining from RB Leipzig.

Despite competing for the position with Dutch international Nathan Ake last campaign, the latter is largely seen as a more dependable option in the centre of defence than Gvardiol by the Manchester City manager.

The Croatian ended the last season in fantastic form, holding down the role of mainstay left-back whilst offering goal contributions in mammoth contests against the likes of Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League and in the Premier League run-in.

But whilst speaking to Manchester City’s official club website, Josko Gvardiol has revealed that should he start the upcoming 2024/25 campaign as the same player that ended the last campaign – despite their success – then he would be unhappy.

“If I start the season as the same Josko from last season then I wouldn’t be happy because I want to improve myself and get to the next level,” Gvardiol admitted.

He continued, “At the beginning of last season I had a period where I felt like it wasn’t the rhythm of my play, I needed more time to adapt, to feel comfortable.

“We all have this in this sport so I think I will be a new player and a new me and the only thing is I changed position. I’ve taken it as a challenge and I like to take new challenges to see if I’m ready for that. I just can’t wait to start the season.”

Manchester City could yet welcome the signing of a new left-back into the club, albeit with a view towards developing a talent in the same way that Sergio Gomez was utilised within the Etihad Stadium during his time in England.

Reports in the last few days have suggested that Manchester City recruitment bosses are closing in on an agreement to sign New York City FC and England youth international, Christian McFarlane.