‘My goal against RB Leipzig came few minutes before my dad passed away’ – Nathan Ake reveals

Manchester City ace Nathan Ake has revealed that his first-ever Champions League goal came just minutes before his father tragically passed away.

The 26-year-old Sky Blues defender headed in the opener in the 6-3 win against RB Leipzig at the Etihad on Wednesday night.

And the Citizen star has dedicated the special moment to his dad, Moise who had died surrounded by his family that evening.

“On Wednesday, after a difficult time I scored my first Champions League goal - and only a few minutes after my dad passed away peacefully with my mum and brother by his side.

“Maybe it was meant to be, watching me play always made him proud and happy.

“I know you're always with me, you will always be in my heart and this one was for you dad.

“The past few weeks have been the toughest of my life, my dad has been very ill and there was no more treatment possible.

“I was lucky to have a lot of support from my fiancé, family and friends,” Nathan explains.

Ake father’s illness is believed to be the reason why Ake withdrew from the Holland squad for their World Cup qualifiers earlier this month.

But the Dutch international was back available for City in their win over Leicester last weekend and again on Wednesday Champions League clash against Leipzig.

And he made the most of a rare starting opportunity by firing his team in front which also paved way for Jack Grealish to score his Champions League goal in his first debut.