The bargain £14m solution offered by Manchester City has altered Pep Guardiola’s plans, as Jude Bellingham displays his true character.

John Stones, Ruben Dias, Manu Akanji, Nathan Ake, and Josko Gvardiol are all vying for two positions at Manchester City’s centre back position.

“Occasionally, players advance, while others remain stagnant.” Manu is currently performing at an exceptional level, and Nathan was equally impressive. “That is the reason.”

Manuel Akanji was the first candidate that Pep Guardiola mentioned when asked why John Stones was not starting during Manchester City’s run-up to the Premier League title in May.

Stones is the transformational center-back of the treble season, shattering records in the Champions League final that were previously held by Lionel Messi by marauding into midfield. At present, he is considered the fourth or fifth choice at centre back for City.

Stones’ frustrating campaign with ailments was a contributing factor to his exclusion from the first-choice defence at the conclusion of the previous season. He was unable to establish a consistent fixture run in order to maintain his position, and he subsequently allowed others to impress.

In his two seasons at the club, Akanji was the primary individual responsible for removing Stones from the City team, adding him to his list of undroppables. In the Champions League final, he began ahead of Kyle Walker at right-back, omitted Ruben Dias from the starting lineup at Anfield for a title battle that was essential for victory, and subsequently relegated Stones to the bench during the run-up.

When asked about his Liverpool debut, Akanji denied that it was unexpected for him to be selected ahead of Dias. He articulated a robust defence of his own game and substantiated it in the most significant contests. He is, as the saying goes, “City’s Swiss Army Knife,” as he is capable of playing in both defensive midfield and on the left. He was acquired for a mere £14 million.

He will be remembered for his subpar penalty attempt at Euro 2024, which resulted in Switzerland’s elimination from the semi-finals. However, his teammates and manager promptly defended him, assuming responsibility for the incident. He can consider himself one of the finest performers at the tournament after a series of impressive games for a gutsy Swiss side, provided that he has the opportunity to reflect.

In Dusseldorf, Jude Bellingham, an Englishman, halted him and requested that they exchange shirts. Bellingham subsequently praised Akanji on Instagram in an elegant gesture. City’s England triumvirate, as well as former Blue Cole Palmer, paused from their celebrations to offer Akanji consolation and remind him of his accomplishments during the tournament.

He should be regarded as a first-choice starter in the defence for the upcoming season, assuming that he maintains his City form during the Euros. Dias was a valuable addition to Portugal’s competition, and Stones has performed admirably in a few regular games for England. However, his performances have been hindered by their sluggishness. Nathan Ake is a semi-finalist and will endeavour to eliminate England.

Akanji discussed his role as a defender during the previous season. Not a defensive midfielder, full-back, or centre-back. No more than a defender.

His adaptability should ensure that he remains in the side more frequently, thereby requiring the other prominent figures to compete for his partnership. There will be no further inquiries regarding his decision to commence significant contests in the forthcoming season.