Manchester City defender Nathan Ake was surprised when he learned of Kyle Walker's interest Leaves Etihad Stadium, admitting that his colleague's departure will have a “tremendous” impact on the team.
Pep Guardiola broke the news Walker announced his intention to move abroad in the final years of his career after City's 8-0 win over Salford City in the FA Cup on Saturday night.
The reigning Premier League champions fielded a young lineup for the third round match, with Ake Only a great centre-back starts. Walker's absence was conspicuous and Guardiola later explained: “I prefer to play with other players whose minds are here.”
Ake was surprised when his manager's comments were shown to him After the matchHe gathers himself before paying tribute to his “legend” teammate. The Dutch defender told reporters: “He is a massive player for us. He has been huge for us over the years. And this year too, he is a big personality in the team. He deserves a lot of credit for all the years he spent as a top player.” For this club.”
Walker He has routinely captained City this season and Ake was asked about the Englishman's leadership qualities. “It's huge,” the 29-year-old admitted. “He's a big player for us, a big personality. He's a good guy too, and I'm very good with him. Let's see what happens. There's no doubt that he was a big player for us.”
city They are preparing to add some defensive players in the January transfer window. Lens defender Abdulkader Khosanov is on the cusp Agreed on a deal worth £33.6m While Palmeiras defended Vitor Reis It will also be on its way to East Manchester.
News of Walker's departure may have come as a shock, but Ake had faith in City's recruitment department. “The club knows what it is doing,” he insisted. “They're trying to help the team and get us back where we belong. Hopefully it'll be good if that happens.”
