'Kudus Mohammed is the toughest opponent I've faced so far' - Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol confesses

Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol has spoken highly of West Ham's Ghanaian forward Mohammed Kudus, describing him as a player with the potential to become a global football star.

Reflecting on his first season in the Premier League, Gvardiol shared his experience of facing Kudus during their initial encounter on September 16, 2023.

Despite Kudus only coming on as a substitute, Gvardiol was quickly impressed by the Ghanaian's pace and skill, which made an immediate impact on the field.

“Mohammed Kudus from West Ham was my toughest opponent. In the first game, he was on the bench, and when he came on for the last twenty minutes, he was on my side.

Gvardiol also recalled their final match of the 2023/2024 season, where Kudus left a lasting impression with a spectacular bicycle kick goal. 

“I realized that he was quite good. He looks sharp and was good on the ball. In the second game of the season, he even scored a bicycle kick. He was the one I struggled against,” he said.

Gvardiol concluded by sending a message of encouragement to Kudus, wishing him a successful 2024/2025 season and expressing his belief that the Ghanaian forward is poised to establish himself as one of the world’s best players.

“I think he is the one who deserves attention, and I believe this season he’s going to come out and show his quality,” he said.

Kudus, who enjoyed a stellar debut season in England, scored 14 goals and provided six assists across all competitions, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in European football.