Mateo Kovačić targets January Manchester City exit after losing midfield role

Mateo Kovačić is reportedly preparing to leave Manchester City in January after becoming frustrated with his lack of playing time under Enzo Maresca.

The 33-year-old remained at the Etihad during the summer after receiving assurances over his role, despite major changes to City’s midfield. According to Sportske Novosti, Kovačić had opportunities to leave but was initially told by sporting director Hugo Viana that the club were counting on him.

His situation has since changed significantly.

Manchester City reshaped their midfield following the departures of Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders, bringing in Elliot Anderson and teenage Lille star Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Kovačić was initially expected to compete with those two for minutes.

However, City then completed the £125million Deadline Day signing of Enzo Fernández from Chelsea, adding another major option to Maresca’s midfield.

Sportske Novosti reports that Kovačić had already expressed concerns about his playing time to Maresca and Viana shortly before Fernández arrived. He was reportedly reassured that regular opportunities would still be available.

Those minutes have not materialised recently, with Kovačić remaining an unused substitute in City’s last two Premier League matches.

The Croatian outlet consequently describes the treatment of the midfielder as “unfair”, although that is its assessment of the situation rather than City’s position.

Kovačić reportedly explored leaving City on Deadline Day amid interest and lucrative offers from Turkey and Saudi Arabia, but no move was completed.

Sportske Novosti presents his current situation as the “beginning of the end” of his time at the Etihad, with January now viewed as the next opportunity to secure a transfer.

His contract expires in June 2027, meaning the winter window could also give City an opportunity to collect a fee rather than risk losing him for nothing next summer.

Until then, Kovačić may have to use cup competitions and international football with Croatia to secure more regular minutes and strengthen his position ahead of January.

Kovačić must now try to force his way into Maresca’s plans before the January transfer window opens.

If his opportunities remain limited, a winter departure could suit both parties, particularly with his Manchester City contract entering its final months.