Manchester City’s Mr Reliable Nathan Ake has warned that the European champions are hungry to repeat last season’s success in the UEFA Champions League. City finally broke through for their maiden Champions League crown last season. With the monkey finally off their back they are now determined to again lift European club football’s most prestigious prize.
Coming into this season the question was would Manchester City be as motivated off the back of winning the treble. Given the lofty heights that Pep Guardiola’s side scaled last season, it would have been natural if City’s history makers dropped their level after such a historic achievement.
But there has been no drop-off from the European champions. They have already secured the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup this campaign. City are also seeking to repeat the treble they famously won last season.
Speaking before his team clashes with FC Copenhagen City’s Mr Reliable Nathan Ake told the media that City are hungry to retain the Champions League. The Dutch defender said: “Before last year we were close all the time. Last year we had a lot of hunger to win it and get to the final because we had lost one before. It doesn’t change anything. We have the same hunger. We have experience of winning it. Knowing how to win games that’s the only difference.”
With Manchester City hungry for more success they will be a tough proposition for any side in the Champions League. But first, they must contend with surprise packet FC Copenhagen in the Round of 16.
To get back to the heights City scaled last campaign they have to be at their best at the Parken Stadium. A good performance could set City up for the second leg at the Etihad Stadium.
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