City midfielder Kovacic out of Club World Cup after Achilles surgery

 

Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic will miss the upcoming Club World Cup due to Achilles tendon surgery, compounding the team’s injury crisis. The 30-year-old Croatian sustained the injury during a Champions League match against Sporting, with the issue worsening in a subsequent Premier League game against Tottenham. Medical assessments confirmed the need for surgical intervention, and Kovacic is expected to be sidelined for six to eight weeks. This timeline rules him out of the Club World Cup, which begins on June 15, 2025, in the United States.

Kovacic’s absence is a significant blow for Manchester City, who are already grappling with multiple injuries to key players. Ballon d’Or winner Rodri is out for the season with a knee injury, while Jack Grealish and John Stones are also unavailable due to ongoing fitness issues. The team’s depth is being tested as they navigate a demanding schedule across multiple competitions, including the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups. Manager Pep Guardiola has expressed frustration over the mounting injury list, which threatens to derail City’s ambitions in a critical phase of the season.

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The Club World Cup, an expanded 32-team tournament, was seen as an opportunity for City to defend their 2023 title, but Kovacic’s absence will force tactical adjustments. The midfielder’s experience and versatility in the engine room have been vital for Guardiola’s system. With a thin squad, City may rely on younger players or January signings to fill the void. Fans are concerned about the team’s ability to maintain their competitive edge, especially with challenging fixtures looming. Guardiola will need to manage resources carefully to keep Manchester City in contention on all fronts.