Forget Silva: £15m Man City player with 95% pass accuracy was Pep’s unsung hero vs Newcastle

Redaction Simon Brett with James Thompson
Published on 2024-03-16 21:00:00

Manuel Akanji played a crucial role in Manchester City’s FA Cup victory over Newcastle United, with a standout performance that earned him praise from fans and pundits alike. Despite Bernardo Silva’s two goals stealing the spotlight, Akanji’s contribution did not go unnoticed.

The defender showcased his skills throughout the game, recording 70 touches and completing 58 out of 62 passes with an impressive accuracy rate of 94%. Defensively, Akanji made three tackles, two interceptions, and won four out of six duels, showcasing his all-around abilities on the field.

Akanji’s performance earned him a solid match rating of 7.7/10 from SofaScore, making him one of City’s top performers in the game. The Manchester Evening News also recognized his efforts, giving him a match rating of 8/10 and praising his defensive solidity and crucial interventions.

With such a strong display, Akanji has positioned himself as a key player for Pep Guardiola’s side, potentially earning a spot in the starting XI for the upcoming semi-final clash at Wembley. If he can maintain this level of performance, Akanji could play a crucial role in City’s pursuit of multiple trophies this season.

Overall, Akanji’s performance against Newcastle exemplified his importance to the team and his potential to contribute significantly to City’s success in the future. Fans will be eager to see more standout performances from the talented defender as the season progresses.

Read Original article on Manchester City News