Haaland’s heroics helped City to another valuable three-point haul as we chase down a record-breaking fourth successive Premier League title.
Ake was full of admiration for Haaland as he spoke to the media after the 5-1 Etihad win.
“Erling was on fire and scored some very important goals which gave us a little bit of a cushion to keep on going in this match,” said the likeable Dutch defender.
“This guy is a serial goalscorer – he’s scored so many goals.
“The way he played was fantastic – especially in the second half, he held the ball up so well and made it difficult for the defenders. It helps us to get up the pitch too.
“He’s a phenomenal striker and he’s showed that for the last three years now.”
While Haaland was excelling in his centre forward role, Ake was back in the middle of the defence.
The 29-year-old has often been selected at left-back during his career in sky blue but, with Josko Gvardiol in fine form of late in that position, Ake partnered Manuel Akanji in the centre of defence, showcasing his pace and grace in the comprehensive victory.
The ex-Chelsea and Bournemouth star, quizzed on his positioning against Wanderers, said he had no real preference and was just delighted to be in the Starting XI.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re on the left or as a centre-back, I’ve played all my life left-back and centre-back so it’s not a big difference.
“Josko is playing really well on the left as well. I’m just happy to be playing.”
As we enter the exciting run-in now, Ake has been there, done it and has the Premier League medals to prove it – three of them across 2020/21, 2021/22 and 2022/23.
He believes the team have the experience to cope with the pressure and that the win over Wolves was a ‘very good step forward.’
“Ultimately, this is where we want to be at the end of the year – fighting for titles,” said Ake.
“We’ve been here before – we’ve got experience from the last few years, but every year is different.
“Arsenal are doing really well but we know it’s in our hands so we have to focus on ourselves.
“It’s up to us. Today was a very good step forward.”
