- Zeiad Tamer
Nathan Ake quashes rumours of a Manchester City exit
Dutch defender and two-time Premier League winner with Manchester City, Nathan Ake has pledged to ‘do everything to play even more next season’ in an interview with Dutch broadcaster NOS – amid speculation over a transfer away from the Etihad Stadium.
The interview took place after Oranje's impressive 4-1 win last week against Belgium and fellow City star Kevin De Bruyne in the Nations League, in which Ake played 74 minutes before being substituted for Juventus prodigy Matthijs de Ligt.
The Hague born centre-back highlighted his improved performances this season compared to his first season with the Blues and how injuries initially hampered his progress:
"Last season I was very unhappy due to injuries, I don't really count that year. This season I was really 100 per cent present and I played more. You notice an improvement in yourself, how you play. I felt good."
There had been doubts regarding the former Bournemouth player's future with City after he was linked with Newcastle, who have recently been taken over by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, with former manager Eddie Howe said to still admire the defender.
The Dutchman has three years left on his contract, which ends in June of 2025, and City reportedly value Ake at £50million – however, the 27-year-old has made his intentions known and is set to fight for more game-time in the upcoming season under Pep Guardiola:
"I will go into the season with that intention [becoming a starter]. I will do everything I can to play even more."
Ake will be hoping for more opportunities to prepare for the upcoming 2022 World Cup in Qatar, with the goal of remaining in Louis van Gaal's first-team plans.
Written by: @Zersailles
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