Is Joško Gvardiol the Premier League’s top defender? According to Sofascore ratings, yes. But if you ask him, the most emotional moment of his career didn’t happen in England, it happened in Zagreb, surrounded by thousands of grateful fans.
In the latest episode of Sofascore’s YouTube series A Guest and a Half – 45 minutes of small talk, big names, and stoppage time – the 23-year-old Croatian star opens up like never before. From lifting a World Cup bronze medal to defending against Salah and earning Pep Guardiola’s trust, it’s clear: Gvardiol is not just making his case. He’s living it.
You can watch the full episode on Sofascore’s YouTube channel here.
From Zagreb to Manchester: The Journey of a Modern Defender
Joško Gvardiol’s path from Dinamo Zagreb talent to Manchester City starter has been anything but ordinary. Now the most expensive defender in football history, he’s also the highest-rated defender of the 2024/25 Premier League season on Sofascore – with an impressive average of 7.37, ahead of Virgil van Dijk, William Saliba, and James Tarkowski.
“I remember watching Van Dijk from the bench at Anfield, just studying him. To now be on the same list… it’s unreal.”
Joško Gvardiol, Manchester City defender
Whether deployed as a left-back or alongside Rúben Dias in central defence, Gvardiol has been a rock for City. But with over 50 matches under his belt across all competitions, the season’s toll was no small matter.
“Some days I didn’t know where I’d find the energy. But we pushed through. The goal for next season is to start stronger.”
Joško Gvardiol, Manchester City defender
World Cup Bronze. Anfield Dreams. Messi in the Way.
For all his club success, Gvardiol’s most cherished memory comes from a different stage – the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. After a bruising semi-final against Messi’s Argentina, Croatia bounced back to secure third place.
“The happiest day of my life? When we came back to Zagreb with the bronze. People lined the streets. That moment… I’ll never forget it.”
Joško Gvardiol, Manchester City defender
He recalls the now-iconic image of Messi’s dribble past him with surprising calm. A key moment came from a friend, handball player Marko Mamić: “He told me to forget that match and focus on the next one. That helped a lot.”
Modrić’s Influence and a Future in Management?
Gvardiol also opens up about Luka Modrić, Croatia’s leader:
“Luka doesn’t need to say much. Just being around him teaches you everything. When I joined the national team, he, Kovačić, and Vida were always there for me.”
Joško Gvardiol, Manchester City defender
As for Modrić’s future with the national team?
“It would be incredible if he plays one more major tournament. But first, we have to qualify. I hope we can do it together.”
Joško Gvardiol, Manchester City defender
And what about Gvardiol’s own future? “Maybe one day I’ll be a manager,” he says with a smile. “Who knows, maybe I’ll need Pep’s help.”
Pep’s Words, Haaland’s Speed, and Ederson’s Shots
Gvardiol shares a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into City’s dressing room:
- Fastest teammate? “Erling Haaland. His acceleration is unreal.”
- Hardest shot? “Ederson, easily. It’s not a joke, if he hits you in the head, you’re going straight to the hospital!”
- Leader? “Kevin De Bruyne. A true general.”
But the moment that caught everyone’s attention came from Pep Guardiola himself. According to Gvardiol, Pep told the squad:
“Without Joško, it would have been impossible to sustain the season.”
“Hearing that from the best manager in football… it means the world. He lives for this game. And I learn from him every day.”
Joško Gvardiol, Manchester City defender
Focused on the Future: No Transfers, Just Trophies
With the FIFA Club World Cup now over, Gvardiol isn’t distracted by transfer talk.
“I have everything I need at City. I’m not thinking about anything else. We just want to go into next season fresh and hungry.”
Joško Gvardiol, Manchester City defender
Watch the Full Interview
The full A Guest and a Half episode with Joško Gvardiol is now live on Sofascore’s YouTube channel – 45 minutes of small talk, big names, and stoppage time.
From rising through Croatia’s ranks to dominating the Premier League, this interview isn’t just a reflection, it’s a preview of what’s coming next from one of football’s most exciting defenders.
You can read the whole interview with Joško Gvardiol on this link.