Nathan Aké can hardly believe historic Champions League win: ‘This is unreal’ | Foreign football

,,It’s unreal, we fought so hard for this”, said an emotional Aké shortly after receiving the ‘cup with the big ears’. ,,This is the trophy that everyone wanted. The club, the fans, the players. We are now going to celebrate with families.”

The centre-back recovered just in time to face Inter in the final. The match itself was difficult, he noticed himself. “Inter is physically a strong team and a difficult opponent. We didn’t play our best game, didn’t create enough chances and didn’t hold the ball well.”

In the second half, the Italians had more chances, but according to Aké, they were not finished by good work from Ederson, Rúben Dias and John Stones. That is a modest reaction from the Dutchman, who certainly also asserted himself offensively. Of all players on the field, Aké had the most passes (82) and recorded the highest passing accuracy (93 percent).

The game was won thanks to a goal from Rodri. The Spaniard afterwards called it ‘one of the toughest matches’ of his life. “It was difficult because of all the emotions and pressure. We didn’t play well in the first half and it was a tactical game. Fortunately, it worked out in the second half.”

For Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan, winning the Champions League final was a dream come true. “I have waited so long for this,” said the German. Twice before he lost in the final of the most important European club tournament, once with Manchester City. “It’s a fairy tale,” was his first reaction. “I feel like a privileged person. Not only because I get to be captain of this club, but also because I get to work with a coach like Pep Guardiola. I am part of perhaps the most beautiful club in the world. I am proud of that.”