Fenerbahçe's surprise signing: Dutch defender Nathan Aké leaves City

Dutch international Nathan Aké has confirmed his departure from Manchester City, signing for Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahçe SK. The 27‑year‑old defender, who featured for the Netherlands at the World Cup, will join the Istanbul club as they prepare for a pre‑season camp in Austria. Fenerbahçe announced the signing via its official channels, stating that a contract had been concluded with the Dutch defender. "Our club has reached an agreement with Nathan Aké, player of the Dutch national team, and has signed a contract with him," the club said. "Our player, who was active at the World Cup, will join our team at the training camp in Austria," it added. Aké's exit from Manchester City comes as new manager Enzo Maresca looks to remodel the squad. The English side permitted the defender to leave, opening a slot in the back line for the incoming regime.

Morocco survives the heat, the pain, and the penalties: the Netherlands crashes out after a dramatic World Cup thriller.

Reports suggested the English club valued the left‑footed defender at around ten million euros. Manchester City originally acquired Aké from Bournemouth in mid‑2020 for a fee of 45 million euros. During his tenure with the Citizens, Aké collected four Premier League crowns, two FA Cups and two League Cups. He also added a Community Shield, a Champions League trophy, a UEFA Super Cup and a FIFA Club World Cup to his résumé. At Fenerbahçe, Aké will reunite with fellow Dutchman Dirk Kuijt, who recently left FC Dordrecht to become assistant coach under head coach Ismail Kartal. Another Dutch player, Jayden Oosterwolde, already features in the squad. The defender is set to report to the Austrian training camp alongside his new teammates, aiming to integrate quickly. His experience in England's top flight is expected to bolster Fenerbahçe's defensive options for the upcoming season.