Manchester City have confirmed that Dutch defender Nathan Ake will leave the Etihad this summer, signing for Turkish giants Fenerbahçe after five years of service. The move comes as City sit 2nd in the Premier League with 78 points, having recorded a recent form of LDWWD and a 1‑2 loss to Aston Villa on 24 May 2026.

Why did Ake decide to leave?

Ake, 30, told Fabrizio Romano that he craved a new challenge after a trophy‑laden spell at Pep Guardiola’s side. The defender highlighted the chance to experience a different league and culture, while also noting that his playing time had become limited with the emergence of Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis. Although not surplus, the competition meant Ake would likely feature less regularly next season.

How did the transfer unfold?

Fenerbahçe announced the signing on their official X account, catching Manchester City off‑guard. The club’s spokesperson said negotiations were still ongoing, while reports suggested City hoped for a £7 million fee plus £1.5 million in add‑ons. Fabrizio Romano later confirmed personal terms were agreed and the move was imminent. The Independent’s Richard Jolly noted City’s surprise at the premature announcement.

What does Ake leave behind?

Ake arrived from Bournemouth for £41 million in summer 2020 and made 177 appearances for City. He featured in the 2022‑23 treble, playing left‑back in the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League triumphs. His consistency shone in the Carabao Cup final on 27 Feb 2023, where he started at centre‑back in a 2‑0 win over Arsenal. Over his tenure, City collected four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, two Carabao Cups, the Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup, the FIFA Club World Cup and the Community Shield.

What impact will his departure have?

Enzo Maresca now faces a gap in defensive depth. Ake’s versatility—comfortable at centre‑back or left‑back—provided Pep Guardiola with reliable cover during injuries and rotation. While Khusanov and Reis are expected to step up, Ake’s experience and professionalism will be missed, especially as City chase the title, currently 7 points behind leaders Arsenal.

Where does Ake go next?

Fenerbahçe will integrate Ake into a squad aiming for a domestic double. The Turkish club expects his Premier League experience to bolster a defence that conceded 35 goals this season, a figure that contributed to City’s +42 goal difference. Ake’s move underscores the fluid nature of summer business and the fine line between squad continuity and fresh challenges.