Stones ‘played like Maradona’

Manuel Akanji claimed John Stones played like diego mar a dona after Manchester City won the Champions League and completed the treble.

Stones was a key figure in City’s 1-0 victory over Inter Milan in Saturday’s European showcase final in Istanbul.

The England international has enjoyed a fine end to the season having been deployed in a new roving role by manager Pep Guardiola.

The centre-back retains his usual defensive duties when City are on the back foot but, given their tendency to dominate possession, he now has licence to step into midfield and dictate play more.

Defender Akanji said: “The way he dribbled, he played like Maradona. He just took the ball, went past three people, passed it somewhere else. He created a lot of opportunities for us. He is an unbelievable player.”

After retaining the Premier League and winning the FA Cup, along with some stunning Champions League wins over Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, City had been strong favourites at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium.

Yet with Inter proving dogged opposition, City were unable to produce their sparkling best and it took a 68thminute strike from Rodri for them to break through.

Akjani said: “It wasn’t easy for us. It was a final and it’s been such a long season. You’re feeling tired, but you try one last time to give it your all. I think we came out better in the second half and we scored a goal. Inter obviously had to do something and they had a couple of chances, but we defended well as a team together and I’m just really happy that we won.”