Premier League giants Manchester City have taken steps to secure one of their most important long-term investments in recent years.
The Cityzens have handed a new five-year contract to versatile defender Josko Gvardiol that will see him remain at the club until 2031, at least.
The Croatia international is set to remain a key player for City as they step into a new era under Italian tactician Enzo Maresca this summer.
Gvardiol Commits His Future To Manchester City
Gvardiol was linked with an exit this summer, but his new contract has put paid to talk of a move away from the club.
The Sky Blues have tied down the defender to the Etihad Stadium until 2031, with his previous contract having been due to run until 2028.
He joined the club from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2023 for a fee of around €90 million, making him one of the most expensive defenders in history.
The defender has gone on to play a key role for the club and admitted that he did not consider any other options once it became apparent that the club wanted to renew his contract.
“As soon as I knew City wanted to renew my contract, I felt straight away it was what I wanted.
“The City fans have been unbelievable with me from day one - and the club provide absolutely everything for players. It’s the best club in the world to be at.
“I have felt so much love and respect during my three years here and I don’t take that for granted.
“The players we have here are amazing. This is a world-class squad that is young and full of potential. I truly believe we will have a lot of success in the coming years.”
Gvardiol will be rewarded with a pay rise that will reflect his status as one of the team's most important players.
He joins Abdukodir Khusanov in signing a contract extension ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Why Gvardiol Is Vital To Man City's Future
Gvardiol joined the club as a left-sided centre-back but quickly displayed impressive versatility in Pep Guardiola's system to feature mostly at left-back.
His adaptation to the position revolutionised how the Cityzens played under Guardiola, as his skill set allowed him to be a tactical weapon from left-back.
Gvardiol showcased intelligence to know when to bomb forward or step into midfield, and when to maintain a conservative position in defence.
He reclaimed a centre-back berth during the 2025-26 season before a fracture in January cost him months out of action.
The 24-year-old has appeared 122 times since his arrival at the club, scoring 13 goals across all competitions.
His time in England has been laden with silverware, as he has won six major honours, including the Premier League title, at the club.
Gvardiol returned to fitness in the final weeks of the 2025-26 season and went to the FIFA World Cup with Croatia.
He will now return to play a key role in a Manchester City rearguard that has lost Nathan Ake and John Stones this summer.
