Manchester City centre-back Nathan Ake has insisted that he is "happy" with the Blues' start to the campaign, claiming that things are more "natural" this term.
The Dutchman, who is currently preparing for the start of the World Cup in Qatar, has made 13 appearances for Pep Guardiola's side so far this season, with the 27-year-old predominantly playing in the centre of defence. He has also been utilised at left-back on two occasions.
Ake was linked with a return to Chelsea in the summer transfer window, but the City boss ensured him that he was part of the club's plans moving forward.
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The defender is expected to start for the Netherlands at the upcoming tournament in Qatar after moving ahead of Stefan de Vrij and Matthijs de Ligt in the pecking order.
"I’m very happy with the way the season has started," Ake told The Telegraph. "I think last season was already a better season than the season before, so I just wanted to kick on and move on.
"I think everything is just more natural now without thinking too much. Maybe the first season wasn't great with injuries and stuff, and maybe because of that you start to overthink stuff or do things differently and now it just comes naturally.
"I’m getting a lot of game time and with that you get better and improve."
Ake missed City's defeat to Brentford last weekend following the birth of his daughter. In a combined post with his wife, Kaylee Ramman, the Blues defender expressed his delight.
The couple wrote: "The most special feeling in the world. We love you so much baby girl."
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