Manchester City’s recent acquisition of Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea has garnered high praise from former footballer and pundit Rio Ferdinand. In a video on his official YouTube channel, Ferdinand commended Manchester City for their astute transfer move. Hailing it as another masterstroke by the club. Kovacic’s arrival fills a void left by the departure of Ilkay Gundogan, and Ferdinand believes the Croatian midfielder’s skill set and experience will be invaluable to Pep Guardiola’s team.
Ferdinand expressed his admiration for the signing, emphasizing the significance of the £30 million price tag in the current market. He stated,
“Kovacic, great signing. Obviously, they’ve lost Gundogan, the captain. But I think Kovacic is a shrewd signing, at that price as well. In the current market, huge business, great business.”
Ferdinand believes Mateo Kovacic is a safe bet to perform at the Etihad
Rio Ferdinand predicts a successful stint for Kovacic at Manchester City, highlighting his technical brilliance, ball-carrying ability, and ability to control games effortlessly. The midfielder’s skill set aligns well with Guardiola’s tactical approach, making him an ideal fit for the team. Although not a direct replacement for Gundogan, Kovacic’s versatility offers Guardiola the flexibility to adapt his tactics.
Furthermore, Ferdinand praised Kovacic’s experience and winning mentality, citing his ability to travel with the ball through the lines as a standout quality. He remarked:
“Full of experience, won the biggest trophies and a different player to what they’ve got in that area, can travel with the ball through the lines, so that’s a good signing.”
Kovacic to Thrive under Pep Guardiola
Mateo Kovacic is tailor-made to excel under the tactical guidance of Pep Guardiola. The Croatian midfielder’s technical brilliance, sublime ball-carrying skills, and ability to effortlessly control games make him an ideal fit for Guardiola’s style of play. While Kovacic may not directly replace Gundogan’s role, his inclusion in the squad provides Guardiola with additional tactical flexibility.
Kovacic is yet to settle into his new team. However, all signs point to a successful partnership between the player, the club, and Pep Guardiola’s dynamic system.
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