Manchester City have officially confirmed the departure of Dutch defender Nathan Aké after a season that fell well short of expectations. In a surprise twist, Ajax Amsterdam have emerged as the leading contenders to sign the 29-year-old and are reportedly ready to break their transfer record to bring him back to the Netherlands.
Pep Guardiola Confirms the Exit
At a press conference earlier this week, Pep Guardiola addressed the media with a somber tone. “Nathan is a fantastic player and an even better person,” Guardiola said. “But after discussions with the club and with Nathan himself, we agreed it was time for a change.”
Aké struggled for consistent minutes in City’s packed defensive rotation last season, often overshadowed by the likes of Rúben Dias, Manuel Akanji, and Josko Gvardiol. Despite his professionalism and versatility, Aké’s role in the team became increasingly peripheral.
Ajax’s Ambitious Bid
Now, a return to his home country appears imminent. Ajax Amsterdam, looking to rebuild and reassert dominance in both domestic and European competitions, have identified Aké as their dream signing. Reports from Dutch media suggest Ajax are preparing a record-breaking offer, potentially surpassing the €25 million fee paid for Sébastien Haller in 2021.
Club director Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has reportedly spearheaded the negotiations and sees Aké not only as a defensive anchor but also as a leader who can guide Ajax’s young core.
A Full-Circle Moment
Nathan Aké, who left the Netherlands for Chelsea at the age of 16, has never played professionally in the Eredivisie. A move to Ajax would not only mark his homecoming but would give him the chance to lead from the front — something he’s long desired.
“I’ve always followed Dutch football and Ajax is a legendary club,” Aké said in a brief statement through his representatives. “We’ll see what the future holds.”
Fans Divided but Hopeful
City supporters have expressed mixed emotions — sadness to see a loyal player leave, but understanding the need for change. Ajax fans, on the other hand, are buzzing at the thought of signing a Premier League-caliber defender with international pedigree.
If the deal goes through, it will be a major statement of intent from Ajax — and a potential game-changer for the Eredivisie.