The Gvardiol Man City deal will keep the Croatian defender at the Etihad Stadium until 2031, ending speculation linking him with a move away from the Premier League club.
According to AFP, Manchester City announced the five-year contract extension on Tuesday. Gvardiol’s previous agreement had two years remaining, while the new deal includes an option for another 12 months.
The 24-year-old said he immediately decided to extend his stay after learning that the club wanted to retain him.
“As soon as I knew City wanted to renew my contract, I felt straight away it was what I wanted,” Gvardiol said.
“The City fans have been unbelievable with me from day one, and the club provides absolutely everything for players. It’s the best club in the world to be at.”
Gvardiol Man City deal ends transfer speculation
The new agreement ends recent speculation linking Gvardiol with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, both of whom were reportedly interested in signing the versatile defender.
Manchester City signed him from RB Leipzig for £77 million in 2023 after his impressive performances in Germany and for the Croatian national team.
Since arriving in England, Gvardiol has made 122 appearances across all competitions. He has operated both as a central defender and left-back, giving City flexibility across the defensive line.
The Croatian helped the club win the Premier League title in 2024 and has since established himself as an important member of the squad.
His progress suffered a setback when a broken leg kept him out for more than four months. However, he returned to action in May before representing Croatia at the World Cup.
The defender will now turn his attention to securing a regular place under new Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca.
Gvardiol targets more success at City
Gvardiol’s ability to play in different defensive positions could make him an important part of Maresca’s plans as the manager begins reshaping the squad.
City’s Director of Football, Hugo Viana, said the club viewed the Croatian as one of the leading defenders in world football.
“Josko is a player this club really believes in,” Viana said. “He is young, an outstanding professional and already one of the best defenders in the world.”
The club’s decision to secure Gvardiol’s future follows similar long-term agreements handed to Phil Foden and Abdukodir Khusanov.
Manchester City have moved to retain key players as they prepare for a new era under Maresca and look to challenge for domestic and European honours.
Gvardiol said he remained confident in the quality of the squad and believed the team could achieve more success in the coming seasons.
The Croatian will now remain at the Etihad through the peak years of his career, unless the club or player decides to activate a transfer before the agreement expires.
