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Guardiola Says Kovacic Nearing Return as Man City Eye Late-Season Lift

The midfielder has resumed on-pitch training after two Achilles operations that left him with just five Premier League minutes this season.

Overview

  • Pep Guardiola confirmed Mateo Kovacic is back training on the pitch and reported the player feels much better following his second Achilles surgery.
  • Guardiola said he hopes Kovacic can contribute in the final stretch of the campaign as Manchester City pursue trophies on multiple fronts.
  • Kovacic has been sidelined for most of the season, returning briefly after his first operation before pain forced a second procedure.
  • The manager highlighted Kovacic’s short-passing and inside-link play with Bernardo Silva and Rodri as qualities the team has missed.
  • City expect Jeremy Doku and Savinho to return in the coming weeks, with Josko Gvardiol still out and Rodri facing fitness issues and a possible FA ban.