Manchester City are reported to be absolutely delighted with their purchase of Manuel Akanji, and believe he has played a major part in raising the concentration levels of the defence.
The Switzerland international joined the club last summer from Borussia Dortmund.
Akanji’s signing by City did actually raise a few eyebrows.
Some did not feel that he was at the level required to play for City under Pep Guardiola.
But Akanji very quickly set about proving those doubters wrong.
The star has shown he is comfortable operating anywhere across the backline. Most recently, he has been playing on the left side, deputising for the injured Nathan Ake.
Akanji has showcased pace, power, aerial prowess and ball-playing, leaving many City fans amazed that the club were able to pick him up for just £15 million.
The Athletic have reported this morning that City are ‘delighted’ with their signing of Akanji. And they believe he has actually really improved one aspect of the backline.
They reckon Akanji has ‘played a big part in a defensive line with higher levels of concentration compared to recent years’.
Certainly in the second half of 2022/23, City’s defence has been absolutely watertight.
In 2023, City have conceded just 13 goals in the Premier League, with Akanji starting 14 times.
He has undoubtedly helped to make things much tighter at the back.
Manchester City star Manuel Akanji has been one of the signings of the season by any club
It is little wonder City officials are delighted with Akanji.
His signing has been hugely successful so far. Without any doubt he’s been one of the best new additions by any club this season.
He just looks so accomplished, and it’s rare that he has a bad game. With 45 appearances under his belt this season, it’s clear Pep Guardiola has been very taken by him.
It’s amazing to think that quite a lot of people were not too convinced about him when he signed.
It just goes to show that there’s always a strong chance for players to come to City and absolutely flourish under Guardiola and in his system.
