Transfer fee, farewell message, Hugo Viana reaction: Man City confirm Nathan Ake departure to Fenerbahce

Manchester City have sanctioned the permanent departure of Nathan Ake to Fenerbahce in a deal that underlines the club’s strategy of reshaping Pep Guardiola’s squad ahead of the new season.

 

Although the transfer fee is relatively modest by modern standards, it aligns with City’s broader approach during the current transfer window. The club have already committed significant funds to strengthening the squad, including the £116 million signing of Elliot Anderson, making player sales less about generating huge transfer income and more about reducing the wage bill while creating room for new arrivals.

 

The agreement is reportedly worth an initial £7 million, with performance-related bonuses capable of increasing the total value of the transfer to around £8.5 million. While the figure may appear low for a player of Ake’s experience and pedigree, it reflects his stage of career and City’s willingness to facilitate an exit that benefits all parties.

 

Fenerbahce officially confirmed that they had reached an agreement with both Manchester City and the Dutch defender. The Turkish giants secured personal terms with Ake before finalising negotiations with City, although the financial details have yet to receive widespread coverage in the English media.

 

The structure of the deal, featuring a guaranteed payment alongside achievable add-ons, mirrors the pragmatic transfer model City have adopted throughout the summer. Rather than insisting on inflated fees for every outgoing player, sporting director Hugo Viana has prioritised streamlining the squad and ensuring the club remains flexible in the market.

 

Ake has completed the move on a permanent basis after signing a contract with Fenerbahce, officially ending his successful six-year spell at the Etihad Stadium. While the exact length of his contract has not yet been disclosed, the Turkish club will view the signing as a major addition to their defensive options.

 

The experienced centre-back arrives in Istanbul with an impressive résumé, having enjoyed one of the most successful periods of his career at Manchester City. During his time under Guardiola, Ake established himself as a dependable member of the squad and played an important role in one of the most dominant eras in English football.

 

Across six seasons, the Netherlands international helped City capture four Premier League titles, while also lifting the FA Cup, the Carabao Cup and, most memorably, the historic Treble. His consistency, professionalism and ability to perform across multiple defensive positions made him a valuable asset whenever called upon.

 

Beyond the trophies, Ake earned widespread respect inside the dressing room for his commitment and leadership, qualities Fenerbahce will hope can strengthen their squad as they compete domestically and in European competition next season.

 

Speaking to Manchester City’s official media following the confirmation of his departure, Ake reflected emotionally on his years at the club and thanked everyone who played a part in his journey.

 

“It’s been a privilege to represent Manchester City over the past six years and I’m so grateful to have been part of a special team,” Ake said. “I’ve grown so much here – as a player and person – and I’m thankful for the time I’ve had at the club.”

 

He also highlighted the unforgettable memories created during the most successful period of his career.

 

“I’ll always cherish the memories, particularly winning the Treble, being part of all four Premier League titles in a side that made history and triumphing in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup in my final season at the club,” he added.

 

As Manchester City continue to refresh their squad for another campaign, Ake departs with the appreciation of the club’s supporters and leaves behind a legacy defined by reliability, professionalism and a remarkable collection of silverware. His move to Fenerbahce offers the experienced defender an exciting new challenge, while City move forward with a leaner squad as they continue their summer rebuild.