Nathan Ake was named Man of the Match after Manchester City’s 1-0 win over Arsenal on Friday, drawing praise from many journalists. The 27-year-old kept Buyako Saka quiet and scored the winning goal, so he’ll be delighted with his contribution in the FA Cup fourth-round clash.
Paul Dickov was full of praise for Ake after the game, calling his performance at the Etihad Stadium “fantastic” and “magnificent”. He said on City’s Matchday Live show: “Defensively he was fantastic on Friday. He was up against Bukayo Saka who is one of the best players in the Premier League.
Saka failed to register a shot on target, create a chance, make a successful dribble or whip in an accurate cross because of Ake’s interventions. The Netherlands international looked on his way out of City last summer but has been a regular under Pep Guardiola and is vindicating his faith.
Dickov added: “Every time Nathan was on top of him pushing him back and pushing him back. The one occasion in the first half where Saka did face him up, Nathan didn’t panic. He held his ground and got in at the right time. He has been magnificent.”
Ake has made 22 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring two goals. The 27-year-old has impressed at left-back and centre-back, playing any role that Guardiola requires him to, so he’s earned a regular spot on merit.
His performance against Arsenal is sure to keep Joao Cancelo on the bench against Tottenham Hotspur next month too.
In other news, Pep Guardiola criticises John Stones after injury blow in Man City win
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