At times, it does seem like Mateo Kovacic is the forgotten member of the Manchester City squad. The Croatian midfielder isn't a consistent starter for Enzo Maresca's side, however he is a valuable member of this City squad. Kovacic's experience and talent make him the ideal player to provide quality cover for City's first-choice midfielders. In Manchester City's 3-2 win over Ipswich Town on Saturday, Kovacic showed how valuable he can be for Enzo Maresca's side. He played well in midfield before injury struck the Croatian international.
Enzo Maresca started Mateo Kovacic, Ayyoub Bouaddi and Phil Foden in midfield in City's 3-2 win over Ipswich Town at the Etihad Stadium. For the 50 minutes he was on the pitch, Manchester City had control in midfield when Kovacic was on the pitch. Focusing on Kovacic's individual performance he showed exactly what he adds to Enzo Maresca's side.
Mateo Kovacic played in his preferred midfield role against Ipswich Town. With Ayyoub Bouaddi playing as the number six, it allowed Kovacic to play higher up the pitch. Kovacic is at his best playing as a number eight and getting forward with his driving runs in possession and his clever passing keeps Manchester City ticking over. That was the role Kovacic played on Saturday. It suited him, and Kovacic put in a strong performance in midfield.
The Croatian midfielder grabbed an assist as it was his cross that set up Erling Haaland's first goal of the afternoon. Kovacic's cross came after he drove around the Ipswich Town defence with the ball at his feet. That run showed the quality that Kovacic brings to Enzo Maresca's side. It is quality that is often forgotten.
As well as Mateo Kovacic played against Ipswich Town, there was a major factor that aided Kovacic's cause. That was playing alongside Ayyoub Bouaddi. Bouaddi is already an elite number six in midfield. He provides the cover and stability in midfield that Manchester City need. These attributes allow Kovacic to play in his preferred midfield role.
We have seen Kovacic play as a number six during his time at City with varying degrees of success. That isn't his ideal role given Kovacic's propensity to surge forward both in and out of possession. Having Bouaddi alongside Kovacic allows the Croatian international to focus on what he does best and play in his preferred role. That stood out against Ipswich Town qnd City were better for it.
Unfortunately, Mateo Kovacic sustained an injury and was taken off in the 50th minute of Manchester City's 3-2 win over Ipswich Town. That was a shame as Kovacic had played well up until that point. He had reminded everyone of his worth to this City side. As long as Kovacic's injury isn't serious, he will have an important role to play for Enzo Maresca's side as Manchester City contend with a congested fixture list.
