Manchester City defender Nathan Ake was shocked to learn of Kyle Walker’s wish leave the Etihad Stadium, admitting that his teammate’s departure would have a “massive” impact on the squad.
Pep Guardiola broke the news of Walker’s intention to move abroad for the final years of his career following City’s 8-0 FA Cup win against Salford City on Saturday evening.
The defending Premier League champions fielded a youthful squad for the third-round tie, with Ake the just start the senior central. Walker was conspicuous by his absence and Guardiola explained afterwards: “I prefer to play with other players with the mind here.”
Ake was surprised when his manager’s comments were made to him after the matchrallying before praising his ‘legend’ teammate. “He’s massive for us,” the Dutch defender told reporters, “he’s been massive for us over the years. He’s a big character in the squad this year as well. He deserves a lot of praise for all the years he’s been a top player for this club.”
Walker has captained City regularly this season and Ake was asked about the Englishman’s leadership qualities. “It’s massive,” admitted the 29-year-old. “He’s a great player for us, a great character. Good guy too, I’m really good with him. Let’s see what happens. There’s no doubt he’s been a great player for us.”
city they are about to add some defensive players in the January transfer window. The center of the lente Abdukodir Khusanov is on the cusp agreeing a £33.6m settlement while Palmeiras defended that Vitor Reis could it will also go to east Manchester.
The news of Walker’s departure may have come as a shock, but Ake had faith in the city’s hiring department. “The club knows what it is doing,” he insisted. “They’re trying to help the team and try to get us back to where we belong. Hopefully, if it happens, it’ll be good.”
