The Croatian defender has put pen to paper on a fresh contract at the Etihad Stadium, ensuring he’ll stay in Manchester until 2031.
After three years and six major honours under Pep Guardiola, Gvardiol has already enjoyed a stellar City stay so far.
However, with Maresca arriving this summer following Guardiola’s departure at the end of last season, the Croatian defender will be adapting to a new voice in the dressing room.
The 24-year-old can’t wait to get started.
“Most of the guys have had the opportunity before to work with him but I haven’t met him before,” he said.
“He’s one of the best as well and we all know the job he did at Chelsea.
“We’re really happy that he is here with us and we can learn something new from his ideas and his mentality.
“I think it’s quite similar to how we’ve been playing the last three years. I remember when he was at Chelsea, it was difficult to play against them especially away. We struggled.
“He’s here and I think we can achieve some great things together.”
After starting the campaign in fine form, Gvardiol missed a large chunk of the second half of last season through injury.
He suffered a fractured right leg in the January draw with Chelsea and didn’t return until May, before a difficult World Cup with Croatia.
Now, the No.24 is focused only on the future.
“It wasn’t easy. It took me five months to come back. It’s a new season and I’m really looking forward to it. Hopefully, I think I’m fit,” he said.
“I can’t wait to start our pre-season, especially because last season I was away from the pitch. I think this year I will be trying to push as much as possible.”
