Kovacic surplus as Anderson record sets City’s midfield shift in motion

Manchester City have told Mateo Kovacic he is free to find a new club this summer after completing the £116 million signing of Elliot Anderson.

The decision follows the arrival of Anderson from Nottingham Forest, a move that has intensified competition for midfield places at the Etihad Stadium. Reports indicate Kovacic, a four-time UEFA Champions League winner, has been deemed surplus to requirements under new manager Enzo Maresca.

Kovacic joined City in June 2023 from Chelsea for an initial £25 million fee and has made 97 appearances since then. His 2025-26 season was severely disrupted by injury, with only nine appearances recorded due to an ankle problem as City pursued domestic cup success.

The Croatian international’s situation contrasts sharply with Anderson’s immediate integration into the first team. Anderson’s arrival has already reshaped City’s midfield dynamics, with further incomings potentially on the way despite the earlier signing of Sandro Tonali by Tottenham for £100 million.

Kovacic’s performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto, where Croatia were eliminated by Portugal, have kept suitors interested. His displays in Canada have reinforced his reputation as a high-profile target for clubs seeking midfield quality.

The next phase of City’s midfield overhaul will be tested during the Asia Tour in early August, which precedes the FA Community Shield against Arsenal. Enzo Maresca’s squad selection for the tour may provide clarity on whether Kovacic remains part of his plans.

If Kovacic departs, he will join John Stones, Bernardo Silva, and Nathan Ake as outgoing players this summer. The exits are part of director of football Hugo Viana’s plan to reshape the Manchester City squad ahead of pre-season.

City’s midfield restructuring reflects a broader ambition to balance experience with new talent under Maresca’s leadership. The Anderson deal sets a new benchmark for the position, while Kovacic’s potential exit underscores the challenges of integrating high-profile arrivals in a competitive squad.