Josko Gvardiol, who was signed by Manchester City this summer from RB Leipzig, played as a starter in the UEFA Super Cup against Sevilla on Wednesday. The Croatian defender already has the confidence of coach Pep Guardiola.

Manchester City won the UEFA Super Cup for the first time on Wednesday but needed penalties to beat Sevilla after a 1-1 draw in Athens.

Youssef En-Nesyri’s towering first-half header gave the Spaniards the lead. European champions City were far from their slick best, but hit back to force the game to penalties through Cole Palmer’s header.

Josko Gvardiol was making his first start for City since a 90 million euro ($99 million) move from RB Leipzig. The Croatian international was beaten to Marcos Acuna’s cross by En-Nesyri, who bulleted a header in off the post.

The Croatian centre-back has already earned the trust of his new coach. The Spaniard decided that the 21-year-old could play a key role in the showdown in Athens.

And your UEFA Super Cup winners… Manchester City! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/dy4I5Ttw1h

— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 16, 2023