Josko Gvardiol has admitted he was caught off guard when he learned he would start for Manchester City in their crucial 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Wednesday—finding out just hours before kick-off.

The Croatian defender made his long-awaited return to action after a tibial fracture sidelined him since January, missing a pivotal stretch of City's season. Speaking candidly after the match, Gvardiol revealed the surprise call came late in the day. "I was surprised, I didn't expect my name in the starting XI," he said. "Like two, three hours before kick-off! At the end of the day, you need to be ready. I'm happy to be back, happy to be in the starting XI, and we know we've only got three games left, so happy to be back and get minutes."

Despite playing the full 90 minutes at the Etihad, Gvardiol didn't shy away from admitting he's not yet at peak condition. "I wouldn't say I'm at 100 percent or at my best, but it's normal. I need games, minutes, together," he explained—a sentiment that resonates with any athlete returning from a lengthy layoff. His performance, however, showed signs of a player quickly regaining form, contributing to a clean sheet that kept City's Premier League title hopes alive and the pressure firmly on league leaders Arsenal.

Gvardiol also took a moment to single out Phil Foden for praise after the England international's heroics helped secure the win. As City gear up for the final stretch of the season, having a defender of Gvardiol's caliber back in the mix—even at less than full fitness—adds crucial depth for Pep Guardiola's squad. For fans and fantasy managers alike, it's a reminder that sometimes the best returns come with a little surprise.