Joško Gvardiol to undergo surgery after tibia fracture, World Cup in doubt
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
Croatia and Manchester City have been dealt a significant blow after it was confirmed that Joško Gvardiol has suffered a fracture of the tibia in his right leg.
The Croatian international defender was forced off in the 51st minute of Manchester City’s 1–1 Premier League draw with Chelsea on Sunday.
Medical examinations have since confirmed the fracture, and Gvardiol is scheduled to undergo surgery later this week. Further assessments are ongoing to determine the full extent of the injury and the length of his recovery.
With the World Cup starting in just over five months, the injury has sparked a race against time for the 22-year-old to regain full fitness and be available for Croatia’s campaign.
HNS said that Gvardiol has already been in contact with Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalić, while the Croatian national team’s medical staff remain in close communication with Manchester City’s doctors to monitor his progress.
“I spoke with Joško and offered him my full support, wishing him a successful operation,” said Dalić. “Of course, we are extremely sorry about his injury. When you add the injury of Mateo Kovačić, we are currently without two players who would be missed by any top club in the world. I hope Joško and Mateo will be with us at the World Cup.”
Following a tibial fracture to his right leg, #Croatia defender @JoskoGvardiol4 is set for surgery later this week, with the ongoing assessment to ascertain the full extent of the injury and expected prognosis.
— HNS (@HNS_CFF) January 5, 2026
We wish him a successful recovery and a quick return to the pitch!… pic.twitter.com/3TUxljduwM
Despite the setback, Gvardiol has enjoyed a strong season in England’s top flight. He has featured in 16 Premier League matches so far, contributing two goals and two assists, underlining his importance to both club and country.
The Croatian Football Federation has wished Gvardiol a successful recovery and a swift return to the pitch as the nation waits anxiously for positive news ahead of the World Cup.
