It’s easy to see why Pep Guardiola holds Nathan Ake in such high regard. The Dutch defender embodies versatility, dependability, and a selfless team-first mentality — traits Guardiola cherishes in his Manchester City squad. Whether deployed at left-back or centre-back, Ake has consistently delivered when called upon, and in Guardiola’s view, that makes him indispensable.
Though Ake has clocked only three minutes across two substitute appearances this season, his importance to the team remains undeniable. Guardiola has previously lauded him as a “proper defender,” and last season, before Josko Gvardiol’s arrival, Ake was the rock on the left side, famously neutralizing dangerous players like Bukayo Saka and Mohamed Salah.
While he might have played a supporting role to Gvardiol, Ake’s adaptability ensured he was a key figure for City. He started 35 of City’s 59 matches last season, proving that even in a team with world-class defenders, he is essential. Guardiola clearly values Ake’s defensive prowess, saying in January 2023, “He is really good in the duels in the box, defending the far post, and set pieces are an extra bonus. He is an exceptional guy — there was a period where he didn’t play, and he never complained once.”
Now, though, Guardiola faces the prospect of being without this “exceptional guy” for a while. Ake, who missed a stretch of 21 games due to a hamstring injury in 2020-21, has otherwise been fairly reliable, with minimal injury absences. Unfortunately, his most recent injury — sustained during the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw against Germany in the Nations League — may sideline him for an extended period, as he was stretchered off in tears. Guardiola will provide an update on Friday, but concerns are mounting.
While Ake’s absence would be a blow, Guardiola might take some solace in Rico Lewis’ recent performances. On the same night Ake was injured, Lewis put in an impressive display at left-back for England, showing his adaptability. The 19-year-old has primarily featured as City’s first-choice right-back this season, but his intelligence and skill make him a strong option at left-back as well. His performance at Wembley caught the eye of Roy Keane, who praised Lewis on ITV, stating, “Excellent, again. Took the ball in his stride, and that’s the sign of a good player. Very efficient, and I’ve said before, when I’ve seen him for City, he certainly doesn’t weaken that team, and it’ll be the same for England.”
Lewis has been outstanding for City this season, even though he has aspirations to move into midfield eventually. His ability to excel at full-back provides Guardiola with tactical flexibility. With John Stones nearing full fitness and Lewis impressing on both flanks, Guardiola may just have the depth to manage Ake’s absence.
As City gear up for a demanding run of fixtures, including their Champions League campaign, Ake’s loss will be felt. But with Lewis continuing to shine and other options emerging, Guardiola may have enough firepower to maintain momentum across competitions.
