Gvardiol: “these young defenders make me feel old!”

Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol has shared his delight at playing a mentoring role for the young defenders who have recently joined the team.

Speaking ahead of the Club World Cup last-16 clash with Al-Hilal, Gvardiol joked about his age: “I’m getting old! I can’t believe I’m 23 but it’s nice to see these new guys, young guys in the team. When I look at them I feel much older.”

The Croatia international stressed the importance of supporting new talent, recalling how he himself was helped by more experienced team-mates in his early years.

“I’m available for them, to help them as the other ones helped me when I was younger. And I’m happy to have them in the team.”

The defender underlined the good performance of the youngsters, who, despite their young age, have proved to be up to the demands of the club.