Manchester City has completed the signing of Croatian center-back Josko Gvardiol from RB Leipzig.
The 21-year-old defender has signed a five-year contract with the Premier League club, making him their second signing of the summer after compatriot Mateo Kovacic.
City reportedly paid €90 million (£77.9 million) for Gvardiol, making him the second most expensive defender of all time, behind Harry Maguire. The Croatian expressed his excitement about joining Manchester City and working with manager Pep Guardiola, praising the club as “the best team in the world.”
Gvardiol, who played a key role in Leipzig’s success last season, including winning the DFB-Pokal, showcased his talent during Croatia’s run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals. The young center-back is seen as a valuable addition to City’s already strong defensive options.
Txiki Begiristain, City’s director of football, praised Gvardiol’s attributes, highlighting his speed, competitiveness, aerial ability, ball possession skills, self-belief, and left-footed advantage. The club believes Gvardiol’s progress will continue under the guidance of Guardiola and his coaching staff.
Josko Gvardiol will wear the number 24 shirt at Manchester City and could make his debut for the club in the Community Shield clash against Arsenal on Sunday. City will kick off their Premier League campaign against Burnley on August 11, followed by the UEFA Super Cup match against Sevilla five days later.
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