Overview
- Kovacic said he will remain at Manchester City for the 2026–27 season after private discussions with Enzo Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana on Tuesday, and he reported that the club told him they "count on" him.
- The 32-year-old has one year left on his contract, which runs until the summer of 2027, and he has not yet been offered a new deal.
- Kovacic missed most of 2025–26 because of two Achilles surgeries but played 45 minutes in a friendly against Inter during City's Asia tour as he works back to full fitness.
- Interest from Serie A clubs including Inter and Juventus cooled after the talks, removing immediate exit speculation and simplifying City’s market choices this window.
- With Rodri recovering from back surgery and new signings Elliot Anderson and Tijjani Reijnders still integrating, Kovacic’s stay strengthens Maresca’s midfield depth and creates more tactical options for the early part of the campaign.