Manchester City have officially confirmed that Nathan Ake has left the club to join Turkish side Fenerbahce, ending a period of confusion after Fenerbahce prematurely announced the deal on Friday. The 31-year-old Dutch defender departs after six years at the Etihad Stadium, during which he won 12 major honours.
Confusion Over Announcement
On Friday, Fenerbahce released a statement claiming that Ake had signed for them, catching Manchester City off guard. At that point, the clubs were still in negotiations and no agreement had been finalized. City quickly clarified that the deal was not yet complete, but within days, both parties reached a settlement.
City's farewell video and statement on their website read: "We’re thanking Nathan Ake today as he leaves City following six trophy-laden years in Manchester. The hugely likeable and impressive 31-year-old has moved to Turkish Super Lig side Fenerbahce after making his mark during the most decorated era in this club’s history."
Ake's Trophy Haul
Ake played a key role in City's success, contributing to four Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League, one FIFA Club World Cup, two FA Cups, two League Cups, one Community Shield, and one UEFA Super Cup. He was particularly important during the club's treble-winning campaign in 2022-23, widely regarded as the greatest season in City's history.
"He’s signed off in style by helping us to two major trophies this past term, the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. We wish the Dutchman well in his next stage of his football journey," the club added.
Transfer Fee and Contract
The transfer fee is understood to be around £7 million, potentially rising to £8.5 million with add-ons. Fenerbahce's earlier statement claimed: "Our club has reached an agreement with Nathan Ake, a player of the Netherlands National Team, and has signed a contract with the footballer. The player, who wore the Netherlands jersey in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will join our team in the Austria camp following the permission process."
City's Defensive Line-up
Following John Stones' exit at the end of last season, City now have four senior centre-backs remaining: Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Marc Guehi, all expected to stay this summer. Youngster Max Alleyne was recalled from a loan at Watford in January to provide cover, while Vitor Reis will return from a season-long loan at Girona.
