It is safe to say that Manchester City’s strength-in-depth at left-back is far from encouraging currently.
While Joao Cancelo deputised in sensational fashion last term, covering both flanks at different points of the season could lead to overburdening the multi-functional full-back.
With a seasoned option in Oleksandr Zinchenko joining Arsenal this summer, the addition of the gifted, yet inexperienced Sergio Gomez from RSC Anderlecht is now all but confirmed.
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It is understood that the Sky Blues were initially considering a season-long loan spell for the Spaniard, as he was considered by the club as a high-developmental signing.
Considering the 21 year-old has operated as a left-back for only a single campaign during the previous term, it is understandable why some believe the standard of Premier League football could be a step too far.
In case Pep Guardiola needs to fall upon an experienced head to step into the left-back role, Nathan Ake’s name will now spring to his mind.
The Dutchman’s impressive versatility made him one of Manchester City’s most vital squad players last season, especially at left-back.
The 27 year-old’s stand-out showings against Atletico Madrid and Arsenal are perfect examples of his adaptability when deployed in an unnatural role.
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Against Diego Simeone’s men, Nathan Ake’s cameo off the bench was arguably his best-ever involvement in a Manchester City shirt, as he played an instrumental role in the Premier League champions grinding out a hard-fought draw.
In the case of the latter, the former Chelsea defender’s heroic goal-line clearance at the Emirates Stadium is seen as the defining moment that decided the fate of the title race by many.
The two-time Premier League winner was questioned about the realistic possibility of him being asked to take up the left-role at some point in the season.
“Who knows? I think last season I did a few games, especially at the end of the season.
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"But we have very good players there.
"But if the manager needs me, he can put me anywhere, I don't really mind!”, he stated in a recent interview with Sky Sports.
Considering the 27 year-old is especially asked to deputise in a variety of positions at Manchester City, he was also quizzed about whether he has ever played under a more tactically demanding coach than Pep Guardiola.
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“No, never, never (known a coach more tactically demanding).
"He's for sure the best for me in that aspect. What he does tactically, how we prepares the game on the pitch in training, it's something else.”
Ultimately, Nathan Ake is expected to be one of Pep Guardiola’s most useful weapons anywhere on the pitch, due to his incredible versatility and consummate professionalism.
Topics: Nathan Ake, Pep Guardiola, Manchester City, Manchester City Transfer News & Rumours, Premier League, Football
Srinivas Sadhanand