“He doesn’t allow that” – Manchester City defender reveals standout Pep Guardiola difference

Manchester City centre-back Nathan Ake has lauded the management style of Pep Guardiola.

The 28-year-old has made over 100 appearances for Manchester City, winning eight trophies including the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, since signing from Bournemouth for £41 million in 2020.

The Dutch international featured 41 times during the Blues’ treble-winning campaign last season, and started the Champions League Final victory over Inter Milan in Istanbul.

Ake penned a new long-term contract until 2027 in July, having previously rejected the opportunity to leave the Etihad Stadium to return to Chelsea.

The defender, who has established himself as a left-back option at Manchester City, has featured in 26 matches so far this season, as the Blues look to become the first team to win four consecutive Premier League titles.

Guardiola’s squad have won five of the past six Premier League titles, and in an interview with the Manchester Evening News, Ake has credited the Catalan’s management style.

“I don’t know how he does it! The things he’s won, you would think you could chill but he doesn’t allow that,” said the Dutchman.

“He wants more and more and more and straightaway if you have someone in front of you with that mindset then the team takes that with them as well.

“We’re never satisfied and even this season we want to go again. He says it every day that we want to go again and automatically you take that and everyone wants it.

“All of us players have this mentality that we want to win things and do well. If we achieve something, ok great but we go again for the next one.

“Every player in this team has it anyway but Pep (Guardiola) tops it off with his stature and all the prizes he has won. To have someone in front of you who still pushes you every day brings us to the next level.”

Manchester City are currently in Abu Dhabi for a warm-weather training camp, with the squad returning to the UK next week ahead of an FA Cup fourth round tie against Tottenham on Friday 26th January.