Manchester City produced a statement performance against Arsenal last night – and Manuel Akanji put in one of his best displays since his arrival.
Pep Guardiola’s side ran out 4-1 winners at the Etihad Stadium.
It was a magnificent display from City, with Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne running the show.
The pair combined twice in the game, with Haaland setting up the Belgian for both his goals.
John Stones also got on the scoresheet just before half-time.
Haaland was unplayable against the Gunners, and just before the end of the game he got the goal he thoroughly deserved.
That was goal number 49 of an incredible season for the Norwegian striker.
Every single player for City last night was fantastic.
One man quite a few supporters have been giving credit to since last night’s game is Akanji.
The Switzerland international was deployed on the left of the defence to cover for the injured Nathan Ake.
Many presumed it would be Aymeric Laporte, but it was Akanji who shifted over.
Pep Guardiola has said he made that decision having seen him play so well against Bayern Munich (via journalist Joe Bray).
Akanji was faultless for City and completely locked down Bukayo Saka.
The 27-year-old has proven to be a magnificent signing for City at just £15 million from Borussia Dortmund.
Nathan Ake sends message to Manuel Akanji on Instagram that many Man City fans will agree with
This morning Akanji has posted on Instagram, writing ‘BIG WIN! #closingin #mancity #moa25 #aimhigher’.
It certainly was a big win, and his post has prompted plenty of compliments from fans.
There was also message left by Ake, the man who was been so good on the left of City’s defence in recent times.
The Dutchman couldn’t play last night having not yet recovered from his hamstring injury.
He was clearly very impressed with his teammate. He didn’t even need words to sum up how he felt about the Swiss star’s display, instead leaving a simply ‘brick’ emoji.
Akanji was certainly a brick wall last night. But he was also very impressive carrying the ball out of the defence.
Many City fans will no doubt share Ake’s feeling about Akanji after his display against the Gunners.
