Manchester City midfielder to undergo surgery on injury – Return by March 2026 expected | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola will be forced to contend with a long-term lay-off for one of his star midfielders this winter, it has been revealed.

Mateo Kovacic’s fitness problems have persisted into the new campaign, and City now face the reality of another lengthy absence for the Croatian international, with the 31-year-old having struggled to maintain full fitness since the end of last season.

The latest news is likely to come as a major blow to Pep Guardiola, who had hoped to rely on Kovacic’s experience and versatility during the congested winter fixture schedule when rotation and numbers in the squad are imperative.

Manchester City’s midfield has already undergone significant reshaping over the past 12 months, with a balance of emerging talents and seasoned figures, but the loss of Kovacic further reduces depth in a crucial area of the pitch.

Mateo Kovacic had previously undergone surgery in June to address an Achilles problem, but a relapse has now forced medical specialists to intervene again, and his latest absence could extend deep into the second half of the 2025/26 season.

As reported by MailSport’s Jack Gaughan on X, Kovacic is set to undergo more surgery on an Achilles injury, with a return in February or March 2026 expected.

Croatia manager Zlatko Dalić also addressed the situation this week, telling national media, “I hope Kovačić won’t miss the World Cup. He has similar problems to four or five months ago.

“We believe he’ll be at the World Cup. I’d like him back in March. It must be tough. The injury and surgery are taking a psychological toll on him.”

For Pep Guardiola, the midfielder’s absence could influence transfer planning for the January window, particularly if the club decide to bring in reinforcement to stabilise midfield rotation ahead of the final third of the campaign.

From an international perspective, Zlatko Dalić’s remarks underline the strain the injury has placed on one of Croatia’s most senior players. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, ensuring Kovacic’s recovery is handled with care will be essential to both his club and country.

Manchester City will proceed cautiously with rehabilitation plans, aiming to ensure this latest surgery resolves the issue. While Kovacic’s quality will be missed, Pep Guardiola will look to others such as a returning Rodri, Tijjani Reijnders, and perhaps Rico Lewis to shoulder greater responsibility in the No.8 positions of the squad.