Mateo Kovacic confirms he is set to leave Chelsea this summer
Mateo Kovacic has expressed his readiness to seek a new club and depart from Chelsea this summer, citing a disappointing season at Stamford Bridge. Ahead of Croatia’s Nations League semi-final against the Netherlands, the 29-year-old midfielder acknowledged the high probability of leaving the west London club, especially since he has only one year remaining on his current contract with the Blues.
Furthermore, Kovacic used the occasion to commend Manchester City, referring to Pep Guardiola’s team as a top-class side. This praise comes amidst speculation of a potential transfer to the Etihad, indicating his admiration for the Treble-chasing club.
In the event that Ilkay Gundogan’s contract extension with Manchester City does not materialize, the club will be in search of a new midfielder. Gundogan, the team’s captain whose contract is expiring, has drawn interest from Barcelona, Arsenal, as well as several clubs in Saudi Arabia.
It is anticipated that Mateo Kovacic will be joining the Premier League and FA Cup champions in the upcoming season. Kovacic has garnered admiration from Pep Guardiola through his performances at Real Madrid and Chelsea, making his arrival at Manchester City highly likely.
“I have one year left on my contract with Chelsea. It’s been a really bad season,” the midfielder admitted.
“Everything indicates that after five years I will change the environment , but we will see what happens.”
Ahead of City’s Champions League final against his old club Inter Milan on Saturday, which could secure English football’s first Treble since 1999, Kovacic added: “Manchester City is a top team and deserves to be in the Champions League final.
“That’s what I have to say. The summer is long, we’ll see what happens in the future.
Throughout the turbulent season at Stamford Bridge, Mateo Kovacic made 37 appearances for Chelsea in various competitions. Despite the challenging campaign, he managed to score one goal and provide two assists.
Chelsea struggled to achieve positive results under the management of Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and interim manager Frank Lampard. As a result, they finished the Premier League season in 12th position, a significant 27 points behind the fourth-place team.
With the appointment of new manager Mauricio Pochettino, there is hope for a recovery in Chelsea’s form. Pochettino will oversee a substantial summer rebuild in west London, aiming to integrate the numerous new signings made during Todd Boehly’s first season as owner.
Another midfielder, Mason Mount, is also rumored to be on the verge of leaving Chelsea. Both Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly competing for his signature. However, it is understood that Pochettino desires to retain the talented England international as part of his squad.
Mateo Kovacic confirms he is set to leave Chelsea this summer
