Josko Gvardiol revealed that he nearly abandoned football during his youth in favor of basketball, hoping it would bring him greater happiness.
The defender for Manchester City considered this major decision while playing for Dinamo Zagreb.
At just 16 years old, Gvardiol felt stagnant in his development and began to explore opportunities in other sports.
“I was contemplating quitting because I enjoy basketball as well,” he shared with BBC Sport.
“I wasn’t feeling confident in football anymore. At training, I just didn’t feel happy,” he explained.
“I was looking for alternatives to find joy again since all my friends were playing basketball.”
Ultimately, Gvardiol made his mark at Zagreb, helping the team secure consecutive championships. His move to RB Leipzig for £16 million (£21 million) established him as the most expensive Croatian teenager in history.
Two years later, City acquired him for £77 million ($103 million), ranking him as the second-most expensive defender ever, surpassed only by Harry Maguire during his transfer to Manchester United.
Since joining City, Gvardiol has netted more Premier League goals than any other defender. He participated in 55 out of City’s 61 matches last season, playing both centre-back and left-back roles.
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Recently, Gvardiol has been playing as a left-sided centre-back, contributing to City’s five-game unbeaten streak.
“I’m glad to return to my preferred position,” he stated.
“I just focus on the basics: protecting the goal and defending,” he added.
“Of course, we have new aspirations this season and aim for the top. However, it’s still early to discuss our objectives; the season is long, so let’s take it one game at a time.”
Currently, City trails Arsenal by three points in the Premier League standings and hopes to close the gap this weekend against Aston Villa.