Manchester City’s new signing Mateo Kovacic has slotted seamlessly into Pep Guardiola’s midfield since arriving at the club. The new signing has made an instant impression in the early stages of this season.
Arriving at the European champions from Chelsea in the summer, Kovacic has fit right into the City set-up since his debut in the FA Community Shield against Arsenal. His technical ability and overall play in midfield meant he fit right in as a replacement for the recently departed Ilkay Gundogan.
His performance against Newcastle in the 1-nil win in the Premier League clash was his best since arriving at the club. The Croatian international’s class was evident from the opening minute as he showed why City were so keen to bring him to the Etihad. He put in a fantastic all-round display as the champions put in a dominant performance over Newcastle.
Mateo Kovacic vs Newcastle so far
93% pass accuracy
100% dribble success
3/4 Ground Duel won
100% tackle successFits like a glove ! pic.twitter.com/oh9FWCPLEG
— 17 (@DxBruyne17) August 19, 2023
His ability when out of possession has become an added weapon for Pep Guardiola’s squad. Kovacic is beginning to form a vital partnership in the centre of midfield with Rodri. The pair are quickly becoming a wall in midfield with their combination quickly becoming another weapon in the City arsenal.
The passing ability of Kovacic has also become a key part of City’s play. His ability to link up with Phil Foden and the connection he’s slowly building with Erling Haaland will be weapons as the season progresses.
It’s only early days in Mateo Kovacic’s Manchester City career. The early signs have made the fee paid for his services from Chelsea look every bit the bargain it promised to be.
