In the world of football, there are moments when even the most seasoned professionals find themselves genuinely amazed by the talents of certain players. Such a moment occurred recently when Sam Allardyce, the renowned English football manager, expressed his astonishment at the exceptional skills displayed by Manchester City star Manuel Akanji. Allardyce, known for his no-nonsense approach and wealth of experience, was left utterly blown away by the prowess of the Swiss international.
Akanji, a central defender, has been an integral part of Manchester City’s success in recent years. Known for his composure, intelligence, and technical ability, the 25-year-old has quickly established himself as one of the best defenders in the Premier League. His performances have not only caught the attention of fans and pundits but also impressed a seasoned manager like Allardyce.
In an interview following a thrilling encounter between Allardyce’s former team, West Bromwich Albion, and Manchester City, the ex-manager could not contain his admiration for Akanji. Allardyce stated, “Manuel Akanji is a truly exceptional player. His reading of the game, positional awareness, and ability to control the tempo of play are remarkable. He is a defender who can not only stop the opposition’s attacks but also initiate attacks from the back. His passing range and accuracy are second to none.”
What else did Sam Allardyce said about him
Sam Allardyce praise for Akanji goes beyond his technical abilities. The seasoned manager also highlighted the defender’s leadership qualities and maturity on the field. Akanji’s calmness under pressure and ability to make split-second decisions have undoubtedly contributed to Manchester City’s success. Allardyce remarked, “Akanji possesses a level of maturity and composure that is rare to find in young players. He exudes confidence and is not afraid to take charge and guide his teammates on the field.”
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It is worth noting that Sam Allardyce admiration for Akanji is not an isolated incident. The Swiss international has been consistently impressive throughout the season, earning accolades from football pundits and experts. His performances have been instrumental in Manchester City’s strong defensive record and their pursuit of silverware in various competitions.
Akanji’s journey to becoming a top-class defender has been a remarkable one. After starting his professional career at Basel in Switzerland, he caught the eye of. Borussia Dortmund, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience playing in the Bundesliga. His performances for Dortmund attracted the attention of Manchester City, who secured his services in 2018.
