Josko Gvardiol
CroatiaDefenderManchester CityJosko Gvardiol goes into World Cup 2026 as a defensive option with tournament responsibility for Croatia. He brings 46 caps and 4 goals into the tournament. Manchester City provides his recent club rhythm before the tournament. The focus is duel timing, compact spacing, set-piece defending and the first pass out.
Group L
Jun 17, 2026vs England - 3:00 PM CDT
Quick Facts
Josko Gvardiol and Croatia World Cup 2026 Squad
Croatia selected Josko Gvardiol for World Cup 2026 with a clear football task. As a defender, he can hold the line, defend crosses and move the ball without inviting pressure.
Gvardiol is part of a group of 7 defenders, so the opponent and match state can affect his minutes.
International Record
Josko Gvardiol brings 46 caps and 4 goals into the tournament.
Gvardiol's senior international timeline dates back to 2021, which gives the record more weight than a simple squad listing.
International Record
- International record: Josko Gvardiol enters the tournament with 46 caps and 4 goals for Croatia.
- World Cup 2026 role: Croatia list Josko Gvardiol as a defender, with minutes linked to form, workload and game state.
- Group opponents: Croatia face England, Panama and Ghana in the group stage.
Playing Style and Strengths
Gvardiol's World Cup value starts with duel timing, compact spacing, set-piece defending and the first pass out.
On the ball, Gvardiol's decisions matter because one loose pass can expose the back line.
- Duel timing
- Compact spacing
- Set-piece defending
- First pass out
- Cover runs
- Box protection
World Cup 2026 Fixtures
Croatia start against England on 17 June 2026 in Dallas. For Gvardiol, the first match is a direct test of match rhythm and role clarity.
Panama follow on 23 June 2026 in Toronto. For Gvardiol, the second fixture can quickly change the selection picture if the opener leaves Croatia chasing points or protecting workload.
| Kickoff | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 17, 20263:00 PM CDT | England | Dallas Stadium, Dallas |
| Jun 23, 20267:00 PM EDT |  Panama | Toronto Stadium, Toronto |
| Jun 27, 20265:00 PM EDT |  Ghana | Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia |
Dates and kickoff times above are shown in the venue timezone.
Recent Form
Josko Gvardiol played 18 Premier League matches for Manchester City in 2025/26, scoring 2 goals and providing 2 assists.
Gvardiol's latest checked appearance came on June 2, 2026, with 59 minutes in Croatia versus Belgium.
Career Stats
Josko Gvardiol brings 46 caps and 4 goals into the tournament.
For Croatia, the numbers guide the selection picture, but they do not replace match readiness. The opener still has to fit Gvardiol's form and the opponent's plan.
| Field | Verified value |
|---|---|
| Team | Croatia |
| Position | Defender |
| Club | Manchester City |
| Caps | 46 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Born | 23 January 2002 |
World Cup 2026 Role
Josko Gvardiol enters World Cup 2026 with Croatia as a defender. The senior record stands at 46 caps and 4 goals. Match role, form and group-stage needs will shape his minutes.
Croatia will judge him through training rhythm before the tournament. The useful signs are duel timing, spacing and the first pass forward.
Croatia start against England on Jun 17, 2026 in Dallas. Panama and Ghana come next in the group. The match order can affect workload and selection.
FAQ
Is Josko Gvardiol in the Croatia World Cup 2026 squad?
Yes. Josko Gvardiol is in Croatia's World Cup 2026 squad in the checked player data.
What position does Josko Gvardiol play?
He is listed as a defender for Croatia.
How many international caps and goals does Josko Gvardiol have?
He enters World Cup 2026 with 46 caps and 4 goals for Croatia.
Who are Croatia's World Cup 2026 group opponents?
Croatia face England, Panama and Ghana in the group stage.
When is Josko Gvardiol's first World Cup 2026 match?
Croatia start against England on 17 June 2026 in Dallas.
What is Josko Gvardiol's latest club form?
He plays for Manchester City in the checked player facts.
More Croatia World Cup 2026 Player Profiles
Explore more Croatia squad profiles, including teammates who can share minutes, supply service or affect the same match plan.
Group L Table
| # | Team | P | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | England | 3 | 4 | 7 |
| 2 | Croatia | 3 | 0 | 6 |
| 3 | Ghana | 3 | 0 | 4 |
| 4 | Panama | 3 | -4 | 0 |