-
Nathan Ake is set to enter the final year of his contract with Manchester City amid speculation linking him to Serie A clubs.
-
Guardiola praises Ake as “one of the best” he has ever coached for his focus and dependability.
-
The Man City manager acknowledges uncertainty about Ake’s future but expresses a desire for him to remain at the club.
Pep Guardiola has hailed Nathan Ake as an “incredible signing,” while admitting uncertainty about the Dutch defender’s future at Manchester City.
Ake is nearing the last year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and has been linked with a summer move, particularly with interest from Barcelona among others.
Advertisement
The four-time Premier League champion delivered one of his standout performances during Saturday’s 3-0 victory against Brentford, where he adeptly managed the opposition’s attacking threats.
Reports from Spain indicate that Barcelona faces significant challenges in their pursuit of Manchester City defender Nathan Ake.
Guardiola: Ake is among the best I have encountered
In a press conference ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace, Guardiola unequivocally praised the former Bournemouth player.
“Look, Nathan may not always be the most physically imposing, but few players are as dependable as he is when he takes the field,” Guardiola remarked on Ake.
“In terms of positional play and focus, Nathan ranks among the best I’ve ever worked with. He is simply extraordinary.
Advertisement
“The challenge comes when the schedule requires him to play every few days; that starts to wear on him. But watching him in finals or significant matches, like the recent game against Brentford, shows his ability to handle high-pressure situations, especially against players like Kevin Schade and Igor Thiago and their speed of attack.
“Aside from that, he is an incredible teammate, both for me and his fellow players. Signing him from Bournemouth was an outstanding move for our club. He played a crucial role in the 2023 UEFA Champions League final in Istanbul, which speaks volumes about the trust I have in him at critical moments. He is a top individual and an exceptional player!”
Sources in the Netherlands report that Nathan Ake is likely to depart Manchester City, with interest from Italian clubs.
The mention of Istanbul is significant, as Ake played in the 2023 UEFA Champions League final—highlighting the extensive trust Guardiola has placed in him during high-stakes games.
Ake’s performance in the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal at Wembley last March was highlighted by Guardiola as one of the season’s top displays.
Advertisement
Guardiola wishes Ake stays at Man City
When asked about Ake’s future, Guardiola expressed his honest uncertainty while clearly stating his preference.
The 55-year-old stated: “He has one year left on his contract, correct? I hope he will remain with us. I truly wish for him to stay, but I cannot predict what will happen.”
Ake’s future at the club may depend on his own aspirations and the offers that come in during the transfer window, but Guardiola’s stance is very clear.
What does this mean for Ake’s future with City?
Reports from Spain suggest that Barcelona views Ake as a viable and affordable option to strengthen their defense under Hansi Flick next season. However, Manchester City’s reluctance to grant a discount to a direct European competitor complicates any potential agreement.
AS Roma and Juventus have also expressed interest in the Netherlands international, who has found it challenging to secure starting positions this season as he eyes the FIFA World Cup.
Advertisement
For Manchester City, losing Ake would signify a notable reduction in both reliability and experience in the left-back position, an area already facing challenges given Josko Gvardiol‘s contract status and the potential interest from Real Madrid. Guardiola has made it clear that he is not eager to part with either player anytime soon.