Inter Milan Defender Makes Manchester City Admission

New Inter Milan defender Manuel Akanji has revealed he chose the Nerazzurri over staying at Manchester City because he believes they are “one of the best clubs in Europe.”

The Swiss international completed his switch to Serie A after three years in England, citing the lure of Inter’s recent Champions League pedigree and Italian football’s quality as decisive factors.

Why Akanji Chose Inter

Speaking to DAZN, Akanji explained that joining Inter was a straightforward decision. “They’ve reached the Champions League final twice in the last three years. That says a lot about Italian football,” he said. “When you play for a club like Inter, you want to win the league every year. And the Champions League too.”

The 29-year-old spent the recent international break with Switzerland, scoring for his country before linking up with his new teammates in Milan for the first time. He recalled his early admiration for the club, revealing his first football shirt carried Christian Vieri’s name, and described the San Siro as “one of the best stadiums in Europe.”

Role Models and New Surroundings

Akanji admitted that as a child he looked up to Raul at Real Madrid, but as a central defender he always admired Thiago Silva. “I followed him throughout his career and it was extraordinary – playing in so many leagues and always at the highest level,” he said.

His transition to life in Italy has been eased by familiar faces. National teammate Yann Sommer was one of the first to contact him following the move, while long-time friend Ricardo Rodriguez gave him advice on living in Milan, even suggesting restaurants and helping him find accommodation. Lautaro Martinez and Denzel Dumfries also reached out to welcome the new arrival.

Akanji added that although he had never visited Milan before, he spent much of his childhood in Sardinia and already feels comfortable in his new surroundings. “My family is not far from here and it could become one of my favourite cities,” he noted.

Ambitions With Inter

Having won multiple honours at Manchester City, including the Champions League, Akanji arrives in Italy determined to add to his medal collection. “It’s a little difficult to talk about expectations because I only just met my teammates,” he admitted. “But when you play for Inter, you want to win. They were so close to the Champions League title, and I hope I can help us achieve that this year.”

Site Opinion

Akanji’s arrival feels like a natural fit for Inter Milan. His blend of Champions League experience, versatility across the back line and leadership qualities make him an asset to a squad already challenging for honours. For a player who grew up watching Italian football, this move offers a new chapter at a club striving to reclaim its place at Europe’s summit. If he adapts quickly, Akanji could prove to be one of Serie A’s most impactful signings this season.