Manuel Akanji has received a lot of praise from Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.
The Catalan strategist offered his opinion on the £180,000-a-week (Sport Rac) player during a news conference prior to City’s forthcoming match against Young Boys (via Manchester Evening News).
It’s easy to say that Manuel Akanji, who recently made headlines by receiving a red card against Brighton, is a major favorite of Pep Guardiola.
Pep Guardiola is ecstatic about the addition of Manuel Akanji. Called “unbelievable” by Sam Allardyce, the Swiss international played a pivotal role in the Sky Blues’ treble-winning campaign, adeptly filling in at center defense, right back, and left back.
The former Borussia Dortmund defender has shown to be an important part of the team since his arrival, contrary to many people’s expectations that he would only act as a backup option.
Pep Guardiola recently praised Manuel Akanji, stating, “What a signing.”
“Getting him last season was such a blessing. We signed him right away. A charming man is capable of playing in two or three positions, including holding midfielder, right-back, and center defense. So smart, so open-minded. It’s a pleasure working with him.
Not always does Manuel Akanji receive the recognition he merits
Given how dependable Manuel Akanji has been since joining Manchester City, it appears that Pep Guardiola holds him in higher regard than the general public.
The 28-year-old’s lack of skill compared to players like John Stones and Ruben Dias may be one factor in this.
Manuel Akanji, however, deserves better than that, as there aren’t many center backs in the world who can compete with the aforementioned two.
Though Akanji was a last-minute addition and didn’t have the finest reputation from Dortmund, his extraordinary consistency and distinctive versatility are qualities that deserve much more appreciation.