Josko Gvardiol, Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez were all in action overnight. For Alvarez and Gvardiol it was a successful night as Croatia and Argentina picked up crucial wins. Manuel Akanji also played for Switzerland in their 1-nil defeat to Romania.
For Croatia, Josko Gvardiol started and lined up in the centre of defence for their crucial European Championship qualifier against Armenia. The Croatian side booked their ticket for next season’s tournament with a 1-nil win. Ante Budimir scored the winner for Croatia to clinch the victory they required. Gvardiol put in a quality display in defence in a game the Croatians dominated which wasn’t reflected in the final score.
Manuel Akanji started for Switzerland as they wrapped up their European Championship qualifying campaign with a 1-nil defeat to Romania. The Swiss had already secured their place in next year’s tournament. Akanji got through the full game in his country’s defeat.
Julian Alvarez started for Argentina in their game against fierce rivals Brazil. Argentina would pick up a 1-nil victory as former City defender Nicolas Otamendi scored the winner in the second half. Alvarez got through 78 minutes before being replaced by Lautauro Martinez. The game was a tense affair between the two bitter rivals with chances at a premium.
Josko Gvardiol, Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez will now all return to Manchester. They’ll begin preparations for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Liverpool.