The quality performances of a City defender have gone under the radar | OneFootball

With the 24/25 season now in full swing there have been several star performers for Manchester City. Erling Haaland has created headlines with his blistering start to the season. Rico Lewis has also staked his claim to be Manchester City’s first-choice right-back. But the performances of Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji have gone under the radar through City’s first three wins of the Premier League season. Akanji has started the season in strong form and looks set for another consistent season.

Manuel Akanji was arguably the best defender at the recent European Championships. The City defender played a key role in Switzerland’s run to the quarter-finals of the tournament. While Akanji missed a penalty in Switzerland’s heart breaking penalty shootout defeat to England he showed just how good he is at the tournament. He has carried that strong form into the new season.

Against West Ham during City’s 3-1 win at the London Stadium Akanji was once again a solid contributor for Pep Guardiola’s side. He has formed a promising partnership with Ruben Dias at the heart of City’s defence. The pair were both crucial to the champions win over a West Ham. In the case of Akanji he just goes about his work with minimal fuss. He was cool in the face of West Ham’s second half pressure and played a key role in Manchester City’s dominance of the first half and the game. In possession he offers a calming presence and helps Manchester City maintain control of games. This coupled with his defensive acumen makes him a vital contributor for Manchester City. His displays against Chelsea and Ipswich Town were quality performances but his game against West Ham was probably his best game of the season.

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Since arriving at Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund Akanji has gone about establishing himself as one of the better centre-backs in the game. He has been a vital player in City’s recent success during the 22/23 and 23/24 seasons. In terms of recent signings by any club it’s hard to find one that represents better value than Manuel Akanji. He arrived at the club with little fanfare but has continued to build his reputation. His performances at the European Championships showed how good he is. That form has laid the foundation for his impressive start to the 24/25 season.

While other players have gotten the headlines Manuel Akanji has made a strong start to the new campaign. The City defender is one of the champions most consistent players. If he can continue his strong start to the season throughout City’s campaign he will likely be heralded as one of the best defenders in the game come season’s end. But no matter what plaudits he receives there is no doubt that Akanji will still go about his work with minimal fuss. That is a key component of his game and one that makes him invaluable to Manchester City.