

Kovacic joined Chelsea on a season-long loan that eventually turned into a permanent deal for £40 million, and he stayed for five years. Before Man City paid £25 million plus £5 million in add-ons to get Kovacic in the summer of 2023, he assisted Chelsea in winning the Europa League and Champions League. After losing Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona (though he did return in 2024) and having their £90 million deal for Declan Rice rejected, City made Kovacic their first acquisition following the treble-winning season.
Overall, Kovacic has made 89 appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side, chipping in with 10 goals and four assists. He has been a part of a squad which has won the Premier League title, FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup and Community Shield. Kovacic’s City contract runs until June 2027, but an extension looks unlikely as Guardiola refreshes his squad with younger players to chase major trophies again.