Could Manchester City’s Croatian defender finally feature in the heart of defence against Arsenal?

Manchester City are currently suffering a mini injury crisis to their defensive stocks. Manuel Akanji, John Stones, and Kyle Walker are all in doubt for Sunday’s massive Premier League clash with Arsenal. With that in mind, could City’s Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol finally play in the heart of City’s defence?

Josko Gvardiol has primarily played at left-back since his arrival at Manchester City from RB Leipzig. His ability on the ball has seen him become a crucial piece of the champions possession game. With his eye for a pass and his immense technical ability, Gvardiol has slotted in extremely well at left-back during his first season at Manchester City.

Heading into Sunday’s top of the table clash with Arsenal, the treble winners are facing the prospect of tackling Mikel Arteta’s side without a host of key defenders. Martin Blackburn has reported for the Sun that Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Manuel Akanji are all in doubt for Sunday’s clash at the Etihad. With Stones and Akanji possibly out, it could give Gvardiol the opportunity to finally play in the heart of City’s defence.

It would be expected that Ruben Dias will be one of City’s two centre backs on Sunday. It does appear to be out of Nathan Ake and Josko Gvardiol for the other spot in the heart of City’s defence. Josko Gvardiol is more than capable of playing alongside Dias. It does appear to be his ideal position and one that he will play for Manchester City in time.

Manchester City’s Croatian defender may finally get his opportunity to place in the heart of City’s defence on Sunday. Sunday’s game against Arsenal may be the ideal platform for Gvardiol to stake his claim for the role going forward.