Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol already has himself a successor, according to the views of one former Croatia international star.
Since arriving at the Etihad Stadium, Gvardiol has developed into one of Pep Guardiola’s most trusted defensive options, with his versatility across the backline both centrally and at left-back underlining why City invested so heavily in securing his services.
The Croatian international has also gained a reputation for blending strength and composure with confidence in possession – a hallmark of Guardiola’s modern-day defenders. Gvardiol’s impact has not only been noticed in Manchester, but also in Croatia where his rapid rise continues to inspire the next generation of players.
At just 23, the former RB Leipzig man already has international pedigree and now plays a key role in City’s ambitions both domestically and in Europe. His influence is such that comparisons are quickly being drawn between Gvardiol and up-and-coming defenders.
Former Croatia striker Mladen Petric has become the latest to weigh in on the conversation, identifying one Tottenham Hotspur prospect as a natural heir to Josko Gvardiol’s ever-growing legacy.
Petric, speaking with BILD, believes the North London club already have a player on their books that could become the next Gvardiol – who continues to go from strength to strength since signing for Manchester City in 2024, and is still beneath his exceptionally high ceiling.
“Luka [Vuskovic] is a pretty hot prospect, one of the top talents in Croatia,” Petric said of the Tottenham starlet, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness.
Petric continued, “He reminds me of the young Josko Gvardiol, who now plays for Manchester City. Vuskovic could become the next superstar in our country.
“I’m curious to see how quickly Luka settles into his role as defensive leader at HSV, leading the team from the back. That could take a while. He’s definitely an asset to my former team. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for him and the team.”
Back in May 2023, it was widely reported that City made attempts to sign Luka Vuskovic themselves, proposing a deal worth €12 million for the then-16 year-old, comprising an initial €10 million plus €2 million in potential add-ons. Tottenham would ultimately emerge victorious in the chase for the player for a similar total fee.
Vuskovic is currently on loan at Hamburg, where he joined at the end of the transfer window after Tottenham opted to send him out for further development. He had earlier spent pre-season training under Thomas Frank’s watchful eye, following an impressive stint in Belgium.
His decision to join HSV was also likely influenced by his brother’s presence at the club, while Hamburg themselves had pushed hard to land the teenager throughout the summer. For Manchester City fans, such remarks are a reminder of Gvardiol’s own journey.
The club had tracked his development at Dinamo Zagreb and Leipzig before eventually striking a major deal to secure his signature. Now, Tottenham appear to be nurturing a defender who could mirror that same trajectory, raising the prospect of future competition in the Premier League between the two.