Josko Gvardiol
CRO
Man CityCB (LB)
Back Line Anchor
Jan 23, 2002 (24)
Left
6'1"
176 lb
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Set for big role defensively
Gvardiol should be a key defensive piece for Croatia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Analysis: Gvardiol was limited to just four appearances (two starts) since the beginning of January after missing multiple months due to a fracture, but the defender is expected to be healthy for the World Cup. Gvardiol can be deployed both at center-back or left-back, but he's likely to anchor the defense of the Balkan side alongside either Luka Vuskovic or Duje Caleta-Car. Gvardiol could also be a threat in set-piece situations, so he's one of the players to keep close tabs on in the Croatian squad from a fantasy perspective.
Starts in return
Gvardiol (fracture) is in the starting XI for Wednesday's match against Crystal Palace.
Analysis: Gvaridol is a surprise addition to the team sheet Wednesday as he makes his return from a long break due to injury, with the defender not just with his team but starting immediately. This is a huge return for the club as they try to chase down Arsenal in the final few weeks, although there will be some questions about how fit he is. Even more importantly for the defender, it seems him earning play time ahead of the World Cup with Croatia.
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