What does Nathan Ake’s recall mean for both Chelsea and Bournemouth?

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Chelsea manager Antonio Conte’s surprise decision to recall Nathan Ake from his loan spell with Bournemouth has implications for both clubs. The Netherlands Under-21 international had put pen-to-paper on a season-long deal with the south coast club, but a clause in the contract to bring him back early has been invoked by Chelsea. Now, supporters of both clubs are wondering what this decision means for their team, as the Premier League enters a key phase of the season.

Ake’s departure – prematurely, from Bournemouth’s perspective – is undoubtedly a significant blow to Eddie Howe. The Dutchman, who bears a striking resemblance to Ruud Gullit in both looks and playing style, had become a key component of the back four and a solid central defensive partner to Steve Cook. Ake had been expected to challenge Andrew Surman in the deep-lying midfield role when he signed, but instead was utilised solely as a defender. Initially, it had been a struggle for the 21-year-old to break into the starting XI. But, on his first league start, Ake scored the only goal of the game at Stoke City on November 19 and from there he excelled, netting twice more as Bournemouth climbed the table.

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The impact Ake had on the Cherries was startling. Bournemouth won 50 per cent of the matches in which he played, a figure that dropped alarmingly to 23 per cent without him. Howe’s men have had defensive problems since they were promoted to the top-flight in 2015 and although it would be incorrect to suggest that Ake was the solution, he was undeniably a positive influence. His eye for goal will also be missed, along with his ability to bring the ball out of defence with style and confidence. Howe may now have to dip into the transfer market in his search for a replacement, particularly with skipper Simon Francis suspended for Bournemouth’s next two fixtures.

Although the Cherries will privately be cursing the decision to recall Ake, Conte’s rationale is fairly clear. He had been impressed with his player’s performances for the Cherries and indicated he brought him back not to sit in the stands, but to compete for a place in the squad. Ake’s return is particularly timely, given John Terry’s sending off in their FA Cup victory over Peterborough which incurs a suspension. Moreover, Conte’s preference for playing three at the back means he needs more options than most, which Ake and Kurt Zouma, back from injury, provide him.

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One of Ake’s greatest strengths is his versatility, something Conte had already identified. Ake spent last season on loan at Watford, where he operated at left-back. So impressive were his performances for the Hornets that won the club’s Young Player of the Year award. His experience in that position gives Conte competition for Marcus Alonso, who has earned mixed reviews for his displays at left wing-back. Ake also provides adequate cover for the indefatigable N’Golo Kante, who has been a revelation since joining from Leicester City. The young Dutchman’s qualities on the ball make him ideal for that defensive midfield role, which Conte hoped he would learn at Bournemouth.

From Ake’s perspective, getting sufficient game time will now be his priority. He had endured a frustrating three months at Bournemouth before finally managing to establish himself in the starting XI. Now that his rhythm has been interrupted, the last thing he will want is to go back to sitting on the bench. With two loan spells in as many seasons, Ake has led a nomadic existence and, at his age, he needs to be playing regular football. Can Chelsea provide him that? Only time will tell.