Nathan Aké feels fortunate to have Pep Guardiola. In an extensive interview with The Guardian, the defender says that Guardiola never settles for anything and this season the bar is set even higher. Last season serves as the most important example.
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Manchester City's remarkable achievement last season, playing around sixty matches and securing the treble – the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the Champions League – is a testament to their relentless drive and high standards.
Despite these impressive accomplishments, the team exhibits no signs of complacency. Nathan Aké, in his comments, highlights the unyielding ambition and meticulous approach of their manager, Pep Guardiola.
Aké recounts instances from this season where the team's performance seemed lackluster, yet Guardiola's perspective in the team meetings was different. He often highlighted the positives, pointing out areas of improvement while acknowledging the team's overall good performance. This approach, especially in matches that appeared dismal to outsiders like the one against Crystal Palace, helped maintain the team's morale and focus.
Guardiola's dissatisfaction even in seemingly perfect matches, where the team won convincingly, underscores his pursuit of excellence. His attention to detail and refusal to settle for anything less than perfection keeps the team continuously striving for improvement. This mindset, as Aké points out, is infectious and has been adopted by the entire team.
The hunger for success is a characteristic trait of Manchester City's players, but Guardiola's stature and his own collection of accolades amplify this quality. The daily push from a coach of his caliber elevates the team's performance. Aké expresses admiration and a bit of bewilderment at Guardiola's ability to ward off any complacency within the team. The desire for more, instantly, is a hallmark of Guardiola's leadership style.
Furthermore, Aké believes that Manchester City's strategy of regularly bringing in new players is beneficial. This constant infusion of fresh talent, eager to claim their first Premier League title, raises the competitive level of the entire squad. The new players' drive and determination to succeed contribute to the team's overall progression and success.
In summary, Manchester City's ethos under Guardiola is one of relentless improvement and unyielding ambition. Their achievements are not endpoints but stepping stones to further glory. The team's culture, shaped by Guardiola's leadership, ensures that each victory is a motivation for the next challenge, keeping the squad perpetually hungry and focused on greater achievements.
