Josko Gvardiol has revealed the emotional strain of watching Manchester City’s fierce Premier League title battle unfold from the sidelines after making his long-awaited return from injury.
The Croatian defender returned ahead of schedule during City’s commanding 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Wednesday night, helping Pep Guardiola’s side close the gap on league leaders Arsenal to just two points.
After spending four months recovering from a fractured right leg suffered against Chelsea earlier this year, Gvardiol admitted the toughest part of the process was being unable to help his teammates during the heated title race.
“It’s been stressful,” he said. “Really stressful. It’s even more stressful when you are sitting on the bench, or behind the bench in the stands because you know that you cannot do much.
“Now, once I’m back with the team, I know that every time I get an opportunity, every time I I come on, I have to give my best. So I would say now it’s easier to handle the pressure, you know.”
Meanwhile, City’s push for silverware has gathered momentum at the perfect time, with Guardiola now boosted by the return of one of his most important defenders.
Gvardiol initially feared his campaign was over after sustaining the injury at the start of 2026.
However, the 24-year-old pushed himself through an intense rehabilitation programme to accelerate his recovery timeline.
The defender also admitted the injury became a personal challenge that motivated him throughout the recovery period.
He added: “It’s been four months. I thought that it was going to be longer, but I think four months is more than enough. It’s normally between four and six months.
“As you can see, I’ve worked really hard. I’m happy that I’ve been through that process of rehab, whatever it is.
“I took it as a challenge, something new in my career. I’m going be ready for the World Cup. The timing of the injury means I might feel fresher.
“So, yeah, there are three games left, starting with the FA Cup final on Saturday. Now we need to recover and be ready.”
As City continue their chase for another Premier League crown, Gvardiol’s return could prove decisive in the closing weeks of the season.
Furthermore, the Croatian will also be eager to regain full sharpness before this summer’s World Cup, where Croatia have been drawn alongside England in the group stage.
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