Josko Gvardiol Reveals He Nearly Quit Football for Basketball Before Manchester City Glory
Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol has revealed that he almost walked away from football during his teenage years to pursue basketball instead. As a young player at Dinamo Zagreb, the Croatian international faced a period of frustration and uncertainty that nearly pushed him out of the sport altogether. Below you will see complete information that has been summarized by The Football Breakdown.
“When I was about 16, I was thinking about quitting because I also liked basketball,” Gvardiol told BBC Sport. “I wasn’t sure about football anymore. When you go to the training ground and don’t feel happy, you start questioning everything.” Surrounded by friends who played basketball, he considered switching sports to regain his sense of joy and motivation.
Fortunately for Gvardiol, that difficult period didn’t last long. His determination and talent eventually earned him a breakthrough into Zagreb’s first team, marking the start of a journey that would take him to some of Europe’s biggest stages.
From Zagreb to Record-Breaking Transfers
Once Josko Gvardiol established himself at Dinamo Zagreb, his career skyrocketed. He helped the club win consecutive Croatian championships, quickly earning a reputation as one of Europe’s brightest defensive talents. In 2020, he joined RB Leipzig for £16 million—a move that made him the most expensive Croatian teenager in history.
His performances in Germany attracted attention from elite clubs across Europe. Just two years later, Manchester City paid a staggering £77 million for his signature, making him the second-most expensive defender of all time—behind only Harry Maguire.
The transfer was a major leap for the young defender, who has since adapted impressively to Pep Guardiola’s demanding system. His versatility, composure on the ball, and ability to play both at center-back and left-back have made him an integral part of City’s squad.
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Finding Form and Confidence at Manchester City
Since arriving in Manchester, Gvardiol has flourished under Guardiola’s guidance. He played 55 of City’s 61 matches last season, contributing more goals in the Premier League than any other defender. Recently, he has returned to his preferred position as a left-sided center-back during City’s current five-game unbeaten run.
“I’m happy to be back in my position,” Gvardiol said. “For me, it’s simple—protect the goal and defend well. That’s what I love to do.” His calm, defensive presence and powerful physicality have helped stabilize City’s backline amid injuries and squad rotations.
The Croatian’s steady performances reflect how far he has come from the uncertain teenager who once doubted his future in football. His confidence, combined with the support of his teammates and manager, has made him one of City’s most consistent performers.
Looking Ahead with Ambition
Despite his personal success, Gvardiol remains focused on the team’s collective ambitions. Manchester City currently trails Arsenal by three points at the top of the Premier League, and the defender insists that maintaining focus will be key to reclaiming first place.
“Obviously, we have new goals this season, and we want to aim high,” he said. “But it’s still early to talk about titles—the season is long, and we have to go game by game.” His disciplined mindset mirrors City’s culture of consistency and professionalism.
From nearly quitting football to becoming one of the Premier League’s top defenders, Gvardiol’s journey is a testament to resilience and self-belief. As City prepares to face Aston Villa this weekend, their once-doubtful defender now stands as a symbol of perseverance—and proof that even the hardest decisions can lead to greatness. Also take advantage of your free time to explore more of the latest Premier League news by simply clicking on footballtipsonline.co.uk.
