Mateo Kovacic confirms Manchester City stay after speaking with Enzo Maresca

Mateo Kovacic has confirmed he will remain at Manchester City.

The Croatia international had been linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium this summer, with Inter Milan among the clubs credited with an interest as he entered the final year of his contract.

However, the 32-year-old has now revealed that discussions with new manager Enzo Maresca have reassured him that he is part of City’s plans.

“We spoke a little bit, of course,” Kovacic told reporters during Manchester City’s pre-season tour of Asia.

“He counts on me, and then in the end it’s always on you to show your best and to be in your best shape.”

“It was important to hear that the club counts on me and that he counts on me. I didn’t feel any question marks from them.”

Kovacic’s confirmation comes during a summer of significant change at City following Pep Guardiola’s departure after a decade in charge.

The Premier League giants have already strengthened their squad with the arrival of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. Rodri’s future has also attracted attention due to reported interest from Real Madrid.

Despite those changes, Kovacic is determined to fight for his place after an injury-hit campaign.

The former Chelsea midfielder spent much of last season on the sidelines after undergoing two Achilles operations, limiting his opportunities during City’s difficult campaign.

Kovacic believes the relentless intensity of English football contributed to his injury problems.

“When you come to the national team and play at the World Cup, you see the pace is much slower,” he added.

“In the Premier League every duel means you have to give everything.”

“Maybe after years of playing and training at the highest level, your body tells you it can’t take any more.”

“The rest probably did me good because it allowed my body to reset.”

Kovacic is one of City’s most experienced midfielders and could have an important role under Maresca even if he is not guaranteed to start every week.

His ability to retain possession, progress the ball through midfield and operate under pressure makes him well suited to his tactical approach.

City continue their preparations for the new campaign with further pre-season fixtures in Asia before facing Arsenal in the Community Shield ahead of the start of the Premier League season.