Nathan Ake is Manchester City’s understated and immense presence at the back for the champions.
Season 2022/23 was one of the best of Ake’s career. He went from a squad player in his first two seasons at Manchester City, to one of the most important players in defence for City.
A superb season from our number 6️⃣ 🌟@NathanAke‘s best bits from 2022/23 👇 pic.twitter.com/OJRVcE06qV
— Manchester City (@ManCity) June 28, 2023
City’s Dutch defender became invaluable as last season progressed. He made a spot in the starting eleven his own through his strong play and the consistency that’s a hallmark of Ake’s game.
Ake thrived all season for City in their pursuit of the treble. The Dutch defender put in a host of excellent performances to cement his spot in Pep Guardiola’s starting lineup.
The performances by Ake in City’s league double over Arsenal and the threat of Bukayo Saka were crucial in Manchester City’s Premier League title win. No matter the opponent, Ake always delivered for City.
He developed the knack of adding a crucial goal for the champions last season. Ake scored the winner in the FA Cup fourth-round tie against Arsenal. A result often overlooked for its importance amongst last season’s historic achievements.
NATHAN AKE GOAL 🇳🇱
Fri, Jan 27 vs Arsenal pic.twitter.com/m9Mn522Vir— Oranje Canada 🇳🇱🦁 (@OranjeCanada) January 28, 2023
After an unfortunate injury against Bayern Munich in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final, Ake’s importance was highlighted by him being named in the starting lineup of the Champions League final. Ake put in another customary assured and calm performance as City beat Inter Milan in the final.
Nathan Ake has gone from a squad player to a key part of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City machine.
