Key Takeaways:
- Mateo Kovacic undergoes Achilles surgery.
- Kovacic will miss the FIFA Club World Cup.
- Rodri returns from injury but requires careful management.
- Man City had a disappointing 2024/25 season, failing to win any trophies.
- The Club World Cup starts on June 14 in the United States.
Kovacic’s Setback: What Happened?
Manchester City announced on Monday that Mateo Kovacic, their star Croatian midfielder, has undergone surgery to repair an Achilles injury. This unfortunate news means Kovacic will be unavailable for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. The 31-year-old had a solid season, playing 42 games and scoring seven goals for the Premier League club.
Club Statement and Recovery
“Mateo will spend the summer rehabilitating from the operation, and everyone at the club wishes him a speedy recovery,” Man City stated. The club and fans alike will be hoping for a swift and successful return to the pitch for the talented midfielder. Achilles injuries can be tricky, often requiring months of rehabilitation before an athlete can return to full form. According to a study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, the average return-to-play time after Achilles surgery is between 6 to 9 months.
Rodri’s Return: A Silver Lining?
In other news, fellow midfielder Rodri, the Ballon d’Or winner of 2024, made his comeback on May 20 after being sidelined for eight months with a knee injury. However, manager Pep Guardiola has cautioned that Rodri will need to be carefully managed to avoid re-injury. Guardiola emphasized the importance of easing him back into the squad gradually. “Rodri is a key player, but we must be patient,” Guardiola said in a recent press conference.
Man City’s Disappointing Season
The 2024/25 season was not the best for Manchester City. They finished third in the Premier League and, surprisingly, didn’t win any trophies – a first in eight years. This lackluster performance has put extra pressure on the team to perform well in the Club World Cup.
Looking Ahead: The FIFA Club World Cup
Despite their recent struggles, Man City will be heading to the United States as defending champions of the FIFA Club World Cup. The tournament, now expanded to include 32 teams, kicks off on June 14. Manchester City is scheduled to play their first match against Moroccan club Wydad Casablanca in Philadelphia on June 18. The expanded format promises more exciting matches and greater global representation. According to FIFA, the new format aims to “promote club football on a global scale.”
What to Expect
With Kovacic out, Guardiola will need to shuffle his lineup and rely on other key players to step up. The team’s performance in the Club World Cup will be a crucial test of their resilience and adaptability.