I’m Going Nowhere’ — Mateo Kovacic Shuts Down Manchester City Exit Rumours

Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic has dismissed speculation surrounding his future, saying the club has assured him that he remains an important part of its plans despite continued transfer rumours linking him with a return to Serie A.

The Croatia international has been associated with potential moves to Italian giants Juventus and his former club Inter Milan during the current transfer window.

Kovacic, whose contract at the Etihad Stadium enters its final year this season, has yet to agree on a new deal, prompting uncertainty over whether he will remain at Manchester City beyond the campaign.

Questions over his future have also been fuelled by an injury-disrupted season in which Achilles and ankle problems limited the experienced midfielder to just nine appearances.

Speaking after Manchester City’s pre-season friendly against Inter Milan on Saturday, manager Enzo Maresca reiterated that Kovacic remains part of his squad, although he stopped short of confirming the player’s long-term future.

“Mateo is our player, until the day he is here I will try all my best.

“It is my duty to try to help players give their best. If he is here, I am happy, and we will continue to work with him,” Maresca said.

Kovacic, however, revealed that conversations with the club have eased any concerns over his future, insisting he has received assurances that he is still valued.

“I didn’t feel the question marks from them. I spoke with them; it was that they count on me, which was important for me to hear that from them,” he said.

“And now, as I said, for the players it’s always on you to show your best version, because if you are playing well, the manager will put you first.”