Pep Guardiola has recognized the need for Manuel Akanji to return to his peak performance level, especially following recent criticism suggesting that the Swiss international has not met the standards he set in his debut season at the Etihad Stadium.
With Manchester City entering crucial stages of the season and aiming for silverware, Guardiola emphasizes the importance of key players like Akanji performing at their best, considering his significant weekly wage of £180,000.
Akanji’s form has sparked discussions, with Martin Keown expressing surprise at seeing the 28-year-old deployed in midfield after City’s 1-0 loss to Aston Villa, as his natural position is in defense.
Craig Burley has cautioned that City risks losing their Premier League and Champions League titles if defenders like Akanji do not elevate their performances.
Guardiola has highlighted Akanji’s need to rediscover his previous level of play, acknowledging that some players take longer to regain rhythm after injury setbacks.
Nevertheless, he remains confident in Akanji’s abilities and stresses the importance of every player being in top form.
Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Brentford, Guardiola suggests that Akanji may not start in midfield unless he intends to use him solely as a defender.
Given Brentford’s high-pressing style, Akanji’s versatility could be valuable, but there is a risk that the opposition could exploit him if he plays in midfield.
While Akanji is capable of excelling in various defensive positions, Thomas Frank’s team may target him as a potential weak link in City’s midfield, aiming to exploit any vulnerabilities.
