Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic confirmed his desire to continue with the team, despite reports linking him to a departure during the current summer transfer window.
Mateo Kovacic
Club: Manchester City
The Croatian international's name has been linked with a move to the Italian league, amid interest from both Inter and Juventus in signing him, especially with only one year left on his contract with Manchester City, and after participating in only 9 matches during the 2025-2026 season due to injury.
Manchester City's new manager Enzo Maresca had earlier confirmed that he "will do everything in his power" to keep Kovacic if he does not leave this summer.
Kovacic said in statements reported by the media during the team's training camp in Hong Kong: "We spoke a little of course. The coach relies on me, and in the end it's up to you to prove yourself and be in the best shape."
He added, "It was important for me to hear that the club relies on me, and that the coach also trusts me. Now it's up to me to show my best. I didn't feel any doubts from them."
Manchester City bolstered their midfield this summer by signing Elliot Anderson for £116 million, while Nico Gonzalez and Tijjani Reijnders are expected to remain among the main midfield options.
Both Nico O'Reilly and Matheus Nunes can also fill the midfield role when needed, after playing at full-back positions last season.
Nevertheless, expectations indicate that Maresca sees the importance of keeping Kovacic in the squad, even with the possibility of him leaving for free at the end of his contract next summer.
Kovacic had proven his full recovery from last season's injuries after participating in four matches with the Croatia national team during the World Cup.
