Guardiola doesn't count on Kovacic: His departure from City is imminent

The Catalan coach told the Croatian that he does not count on him and it is best for him to look for an exit in the winter market.

Javier Parra Peña | 24 Oct 2025 | 22.00
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Guardiola does not count on Kovacic: His departure from City is imminent
Guardiola does not count on Kovacic: His departure from City is imminent

Manchester City is preparing to change direction in their midfield, and the protagonist of this decision could be Mateo Kovacic. The veteran midfielder has been informed by the coach that his presence is dispensable, opening the door to his departure in January.

Both Aston Villa and West Ham, along with other clubs, have set their sights on him as a viable target to bolster their squad. Manchester City, on the other hand, is already open to receiving proposals to facilitate an operation that frees up wage mass and space for other players.

Manchester City opens the door for Kovacic's exit

At the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City has made it clear that they do not count on Kovacic for the immediate future. After recovering from an Achilles tendon injury, the midfielder has not managed to maintain a relevant role, and the coach, aware of the multiple alternatives in the squad, sees a transfer or loan as more advantageous.

This has created a scenario where Aston Villa and West Ham see an opportunity to secure his arrival. Manchester City believes Kovacic's wages and age advise negotiating in January before his contract becomes a major issue.

Premier League Suitors: Aston Villa and West Ham in the race

Aston Villa emerges as an interested candidate in acquiring Mateo Kovacic to strengthen their midfield. With the coach seeking experience and control in the creation zone, the arrival of a player with the resume of the Croatian would be a significant move. However, sources indicate that Villa has not yet made a firm offer.

Simultaneously, West Ham is also monitoring Kovacic's situation. The Hammers could see him as a quality piece to stabilize their midfield, but their current transfer policy prioritizes youth and resale value, casting doubts on their involvement in the operation.

Manchester City opens the door for Kovacic's exit

What determines Kovacic's departure from Manchester City?

Manchester City's decision to facilitate Mateo Kovacic's departure is motivated by several factors. On one hand, the lack of negotiations for his renewal reinforces the idea of managing the squad towards the future.

On the other hand, Kovacic's low prominence this season and the squad's depth put pressure on his role. All of this pushes the club to seriously consider a loan or transfer in January, before salaries and wages limit future operations. Furthermore, his age and injury record increase the cost of keeping him at the club without performance guarantees.

Kovacic's scenario and what he can offer Aston Villa or West Ham

For Mateo Kovacic, leaving Manchester City means seeking minutes and purpose in his career. His accolades and experience at top clubs give him immediate appeal, but his new team must ensure him a prominent role.

At Aston Villa, he could fit in as a playmaker, bringing calmness and game reading. However, at West Ham, he might find less alignment in the sporting project if the sought profile is more offensive. Currently, both clubs are in the exploratory phase and have not submitted formal offers to Manchester City.

In summary, Mateo Kovacic's situation is gaining momentum: Manchester City is willing to open the door, Aston Villa and West Ham are waiting as potential destinations, and the midfielder must decide to accept a challenge to boost his prominence.

Each passing match without resolving the situation increases the risk of delaying his departure until summer. The winter period will be crucial in defining his future and that of Manchester City.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Guardiola no cuenta con Kovacic: Su salida del City es inminente

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