In the world of elite football, where standards are set sky-high, and the smallest margins can determine the outcome of seasons, there’s one Manchester City player who, according to Kalvin Phillips, exemplifies what it means to be a relentless competitor. That man is Josko Gvardiol, the £51 million defender City signed from RB Leipzig this past summer. Despite the price tag, the Croatian’s insatiable desire for improvement is what stands out the most for Phillips, who himself has had a tough time settling into Pep Guardiola’s side.
Phillips, the England international known for his tenacity and footballing IQ, hasn’t been shy about his admiration for his new teammate. The 27-year-old midfielder recently opened up about Gvardiol’s commitment, drive, and professionalism, painting a picture of a player who is not only talented but also has a ‘fire in his belly’—a burning desire to constantly push himself to greater height.
A Player Unlike Any Other
In a recent interview, Phillips couldn’t contain his awe at Gvardiol’s work ethic. “I’ve been around some great players at Leeds and City, but I’ve never seen anything like Josko,” he began. “He’s the kind of player who doesn’t rest. He always wants to improve, no matter how good people say he is or how well he’s playing. I think that’s something we all admire in him.”
For Phillips to say that about Gvardiol, especially in a Manchester City team stacked with world-class talent, speaks volumes. The Croatian international, who has been touted as one of the best young defenders in world football, brings more than just physical attributes to the pitch. His mentality, Phillips says, sets him apart from others.
Gvardiol’s rise has been meteoric, having impressed with RB Leipzig and Croatia at both the domestic and international levels before earning his big move to the Premier League champions. But for Phillips, it’s Gvardiol’s hunger to keep improving that truly defines him as a player.
The Pep Effect: Gvardiol Embraces Guardiola’s Demands
Playing under a manager like Pep Guardiola, who is known for his tactical brilliance and attention to detail, can be daunting for even the best of players. Gvardiol, however, has embraced the challenge. Phillips spoke about how Gvardiol has handled the transition to City and Guardiola’s demanding coaching methods.
“Pep’s system is difficult to adjust to, especially for new players,” Phillips admitted. “But Josko has taken to it like a fish to water. He’s always asking questions, always analyzing his game to see where he can improve. It’s like he’s got a fire in his belly that keeps him going. That’s the kind of mentality you need to succeed at this level, especially in a team like City where you’re always fighting for titles.”
Gvardiol’s versatility is also one of his standout traits. At Leipzig, he was known for his ability to play as a center-back, left-back, and even in defensive midfield on occasion. Guardiola has already begun to use him in multiple roles, and according to Phillips, Gvardiol thrives on the opportunity to take on different responsibilities.
“He loves the challenge of learning new roles,” Phillips said. “I think that’s one of the reasons he’s adapted so well to Pep’s system. He’s comfortable with the ball at his feet, can pick out a pass, and is strong in the tackle. But more than anything, he’s always looking for ways to improve, and that’s what makes him special.”
Building a New Core at Manchester City
Gvardiol’s arrival at City is part of a larger strategy by the club to build a new core of young, hungry players who can sustain their dominance in both domestic and European football for years to come. Alongside the likes of Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and Julian Alvarez, Gvardiol represents the next generation of City stars.
Phillips believes that having players like Gvardiol in the squad pushes everyone to raise their game. “When you have someone like Josko, who’s always putting in the extra work and striving to be better, it rubs off on everyone,” Phillips explained. “It makes you want to work harder, to push yourself, and to make sure you’re doing everything you can to improve. That’s the kind of culture we have here at City, and Josko fits right in.”
Phillips also highlighted how Gvardiol’s attitude off the pitch mirrors his relentless approach on it. “He’s humble, doesn’t get caught up in the hype, and he’s focused on his development. That’s the mark of a top professional. He’s still young, but he carries himself like someone who’s been at the top for years. It’s been really impressive to see.”
A Future Star in the Making
At just 22 years old, Gvardiol still has plenty of time to develop, but if his first few months at City are anything to go by, he’s on track to become one of the best defenders in the world. His combination of physicality, technical ability, and mental fortitude has already drawn comparisons to some of the Premier League’s greatest defenders, and if he continues on this trajectory, those comparisons may not be far off the mark.
For Kalvin Phillips, being able to witness Gvardiol’s progression firsthand has been a source of inspiration. “We’re all in awe of what he’s capable of,” Phillips concluded. “But the best part is, he’s never satisfied. He always wants to improve, always wants to get better, and that’s what separates the great players from the truly world-class ones. Josko’s got that fire in his belly, and I’m excited to see where it takes him.”
With Gvardiol leading the way, Manchester City looks poised to continue their dominance in English football, and for players like Phillips, having someone of Gvardiol’s caliber to train and play alongside can only be a positive thing. As City eyes more silverware, it’s clear that Gvardiol will be a key part of their plans—not just for this season, but for many more to come.