Manchester City defender Nathan Ake has openly discussed a potential January transfer, admitting his place in the Netherlands squad for the 2026 World Cup depends on more regular game time.
Manchester City Defender Nathan Ake Hints at January Exit Following World Cup Warning
The 29-year-old has started only two Premier League matches this season, finding himself behind Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and others in Pep Guardiola’s defensive plans.
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has directly addressed the issue with the player.
“He has said to me a few times that he wants me to play more,” Ake revealed. “Sometimes it is difficult to call me up if I don’t play a lot. That’s obvious.”
Ake, who earned 57 caps and started every game for the Dutch at the 2022 World Cup, now faces a critical career decision.
With the next tournament in North America fast approaching, securing consistent minutes is his immediate priority.
“Every player wants to play as much as possible,” Ake stated, while acknowledging the strong performances of his teammates.
“The only thing I can say is I keep fighting every time… I have to wait for chances and we will see in the future what happens.”
His comments will alert several clubs, with Barcelona reportedly interested in a winter move. The situation adds intrigue to City’s season, where Guardiola’s own future beyond this campaign remains a topic of speculation.
Guardiola recently affirmed his commitment, saying, “I have a contract. I’m happy. I want to fight with my team.” However, for Ake, the calculus is different.
As the Netherlands prepare for a group stage against Japan and Tunisia, the defender knows his club prospects may need to change to secure his international place.
All eyes now turn to the January window to see if Ake secures a move to reignite his World Cup ambitions.
