City’s Croatian midfielder may have become their most important player on the run home

City’s Croatian midfielder Mateo Kovacic may have become Manchester City’s most important player on the run home this season. In the champions’ last two games, his importance to the world champions has become evident. Kovacic appears to have a vital role to play as Manchester City bid to repeat their treble heroics from a season ago.

During City’s 1-all draw with Liverpool and last weekend’s 2-nil win over Newcastle, it has become apparent that Pep Guardiola’s side look far more settled in midfield with Kovacic on the pitch. His presence next to Rodri in midfield gives the world champions more control of games. The pair work wonderfully well together, and having them both on the pitch immediately provides City with the control of games they desire. As Pep Guardiola’s sides treble defence continues, it does appear that City’s best lineup has their Croatian midfielder at the heart of midfield.

There are obviously other key pieces to the Manchester City setup. Rodri is clearly City’s most important player. Without him, the champions traditionally struggle. But with Kovacic paired in midfield with their midfield general, City’s midfield becomes infinitely stronger. The pair provides a solid foundation in the most important area of the pitch. With the duo dictating affairs in midfield, it gives the platform for Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, and Erling Haaland to shine.

How Pep Guardiola decides to line up on the run home will be a crucial factor as the champions chase another treble. But based on the evidence of City’s last two games, Mateo Kovacic has to start on the run home. The Croatian midfielder has all of a sudden become one of City’s most important players at the business end of the season.