Josko Gvardiol signs new Manchester City contract until 2031 | OneFootball

Manchester City have confirmed that Josko Gvardiol has signed a new long-term contract.

The new deal will keep the Croatian centre-back at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2031, with the option of a further one-year extension.

The new agreement ends speculation over Gvardiol’s future. Several clubs across Europe were interested in Gvardiol but verbally agreed to remain at City before jetting off for the World Cup.

Gvardiol returned to Manchester earlier this week to finalise the deal.

During negotiations, Gvardiol was guaranteed a place as one of the most important players in the squad as City prepare for a new era under Enzo Maresca.

Club officials reportedly see Gvardiol, Phil Foden and Erling Haaland as the three key players around whom the next generation of the squad will be built. 

Foden recently signed a new contract, while Haaland agreed to a long-term extension last year. After signing the new contract, Gvardiol expressed his happiness at staying with City.

“As soon as I knew City wanted to renew my contract, I felt straight away it was what I wanted,” the Croatian centre-back said.

“The City fans have been unbelievable with me from day one – and the club provide absolutely everything for players. It’s the best club in the world to be at.

“I have felt so much love and respect during my three years here, and I don’t take that for granted.

“The players we have here are amazing. This is a world-class squad that is young and full of potential. I truly believe we will have a lot of success in the coming years.”

Gvardiol is expected to feature in City’s upcoming pre-season tour of Asia, where the squad will play matches in Hong Kong and Seoul. 

Despite several players returning later following international duty, City will still travel with a talented group as preparations begin for another campaign, with the Community Shield and the new Premier League season on the horizon.