Nathan Ake: Unveiling the Indispensable Force Behind Pep Guardiola's Triumphant Treble Conquest

Newcomers at Man City under Pep Guardiola have often fallen victim to the phenomenon known as "first-season syndrome." Nathan Ake's experience is no exception, as he has had his fair share of frustrations and needed more patience than most. However, his perseverance is finally paying off.

During his initial two seasons, Ake found himself in and out of the team, struggling to secure a consistent starting position. Last summer, there were rumors of a potential move to Chelsea, which could have ended his City journey prematurely. Fortunately for both Ake and the club, the transfer never came to fruition.

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Friday 11th August 6:30pm

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Ake appeared in a greater number of games on the way to securing the treble than he had in the previous two seasons combined. Despite having recently recovered from an injury, Ake was chosen to start the Champions League final in Istanbul while Kyle Walker remained on the bench. According to Guardiola, Ake had become a crucial player.

Getting accustomed to Guardiola's rigorous expectations may require some time. However, there is another aspect to the intensely focused winner we witness enthusiastically gesturing on the sidelines every week. A more patient side that may not receive sufficient recognition.

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Pep Guardiola has played a crucial role in Ake's journey at Man City. "Guardiola's support has been immense," Ake shares with We. Despite a challenging debut season filled with injuries and limited playing time, as well as struggling to perform at my best, Guardiola consistently believed in me.

"He could've easily dismissed it after the first season, saying 'No, this isn't it.' However, he consistently communicated with me, assuring me to not fret and to persevere as opportunities would arise. The second season instilled in me the assurance to keep pushing forward, and I began to progressively gain more confidence while learning and comprehending his expectations."

"So, how does a defender who seemed almost discarded manage to transform his fate so rapidly, ultimately becoming an integral part of one of Britain's most triumphant teams?"

"These players excel on the field because off the field they display exceptional generosity, empathy, and unwavering dedication," Guardiola remarked about Ake during the previous season in March.

"In such instances, there is no room for regret. They are ready to perform because they have consistently prepared themselves, rather than relying on excuses. Call it karma or any other term you prefer, it undeniably yields positive outcomes."

He deserves to play because he is an exceptional defender, particularly in set pieces. His attention to our team's needs and his effectiveness in close spaces are remarkable. That is why he is currently in the playing lineup. Guardiola's decision to change the team's shape also played a significant role in Ake's rise. By removing more offensive-minded full-backs like Joao Cancelo and Oleksandr Zinchenko, Guardiola constructed a backline consisting of four solid defenders, similar to how Tony Pulis organized his teams at Stoke.

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Ake's exceptional distribution skills are also crucial for City's build-up play. During the Champions League final, Manuel Akanji, John Stones, Ruben Dias, and Ake formed the defensive lineup. In contrast to Pulis, Guardiola deployed Stones in a midfield role to add an extra attacking threat. Dias displayed his defensive prowess at the heart of the defense, while Akanji and Ake provided coverage on the flanks.

Guardiola required dependable defenders in the wider positions to counter formidable inside forwards in the world. "This season, I have discovered that when you come up against Bukayo Saka, Vinicius Junior, Gabriel Martinelli, Mohamed Salah, or Sadio Mane, it is essential to possess a skilled defender who can triumph in one-on-one battles. Nathan provided us with that necessary boost, which was absent in the past."

Ake had finally discovered his ideal role at City. "It suits me perfectly," he informs We. "I particularly enjoy the position because it combines elements of a left-back and a centre-back, acting as a hybrid," he elaborates.

"I have some freedom to venture forward and often engage in one-on-one battles, especially against top-notch wingers. Personally, I find it exhilarating. It's undoubtedly challenging, as you face talented opponents every week, but I relish the challenge. I also have a strong affinity for defending."

He is versatile, often playing as a centre-back while occasionally venturing forward as a left-back and assuming defensive duties in that position. In his younger years, he even spent a season as a left-back and showcased his skills in midfield as well. He truly encompasses a diverse range of abilities.

As Ake has solidified his position in the team and secured a new four-year contract, City has invested nearly £80m in Josko Gvardiol, a left-footed centre-back. With Aymeric Laporte likely to depart this summer, Ake has been reminded of the relentless standards demanded by Guardiola. The continuous rotation of players each summer has been crucial to City's dominance over the past six years. Liverpool, the only team to challenge City's league triumphs during this period, are now experiencing the consequences of stagnation. However, Ake, like many others, aligns with Guardiola's methods and preferences.

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"As a player here, you understand that the club strives to acquire top-quality players in every position. This not only fosters competitiveness within the squad but also aids in elevating each other's performance and achieving success in winning titles," he explains. "It is undeniably beneficial for the club to bring in talented players."

Guardiola's constant rotation throughout the season keeps Fantasy Premier League managers guessing and often irritates them. However, City's depth in talent allows the manager to do this without significantly weakening his team. Gvardiol's presence in Ake's position adds to the array of world-class options available.

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"Maintaining that mentality is crucial, especially within our team, where anyone can potentially replace you at any given moment," emphasizes Ake. "The previous season had the same dynamic, and this season will follow suit. It's essential to bring your best self to every game, ensuring that our main objective of winning matches and titles is met. Additionally, consistently upholding your own high standards each day should remain a priority."

Gvardiol faces a challenging task if he aims to secure a place in the City squad ahead of Ake this season. The Dutch defender understands the experience of being on the sidelines all too well. He will not relinquish his position without putting up a fight.

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