Though intrinsically a centre half, Ake again demonstrated his adaptability by impressively operating on the left side of defence in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Burnley.
The Dutch international provided an assured composed display, dovetailing superbly alongside John Stones and Aymeric Laporte to keep the Clarets at bay.
Reflecting on the win, Guardiola was keen to praise Ake’s overall contribution and he described the 26-year-old as another potential option at left-back looking to the future.
“Nathan is an alternative (at left-back). He is not a left-back to do overlaps…he is not just this type of guy,” Guardiola stressed at his post-match press conference.
“But he is so focused, so concentrated. He is an intelligent guy and on Saturday our build-up was with three at the back with Aymer more in the centre and John more on the right. It suited us perfectly.
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“Against a team like Burnley, they are strong in the air and at set pieces and corners and it helped to have a player Nathan alongside John, Aymer and Rodri then Ferna in the last few minutes.
“He’s a joy to have him - Nathan is a great guy.
“He always trains well and is loved by the team. This type of person when I can give them minutes, I am really pleased for them.”
Play the video to watch Pep’s press conference in full…
