Manuel Akanji has given a cautious update on his future as he continues to impress on loan at Inter Milan, leaving the door open for a potential permanent switch in the summer of 2026.The Swiss centre-back joined Inter on a deadline-day loan from Manchester City, with the Serie A side holding an option to buy at the end of the season. Akanji — who moved to City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 and played a key role in the club’s treble-winning campaign that season — has settled quickly in Italy and become a regular under coach Cristian Chivu.
Akanji’s City background and Inter breakthrough
Akanji made 136 appearances for Manchester City before his loan, but found playing time limited last term as City reshaped their defensive options. New sporting director Hugo Viana facilitated the temporary exit to give the 30-year-old consistent minutes as he targets a starting spot ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Now a trusted starter for Inter, Akanji has spoken positively about life in Italy and his role at the Nerazzurri. After Inter’s 2-1 win at Hellas Verona, he told reporters: “For now, there’s nothing. We’ll see what happens at the end of the season. I’m trying to do my best on the pitch and in the end we’ll see if Inter decide to keep me or not — the decision is up to them.”
Why a permanent move looks likely
Inter appear satisfied with Akanji’s contributions so far, and they hold a sensible path to sign him permanently. With several veteran centre-back contracts (including Francesco Acerbi, Stefan de Vrij and Matteo Darmian) due to expire at the end of the season, Inter could view Akanji as a long-term option to refresh their backline.
At Manchester City, competition for central defence places remains intense. The squad currently features the likes of Rúben Dias, Joško Gvardiol, Nathan Aké, John Stones (who faces fitness concerns), and rising option Abdukodir Khusanov. Given that depth, City’s hierarchy may be open to letting Akanji move on — particularly if Inter triggers the buy option and the deal makes sporting and financial sense.
Akanji on Serie A and his own form
The Swiss international has also praised the league’s competitiveness. “The league (Serie A) is as competitive as I expected,” he said. “I’m trying to do my best within my abilities to help the team. I like the club, the coach, the staff — I’m very happy here.”
That satisfaction, paired with regular starts, strengthens the argument for a permanent transfer — especially as Akanji aims to secure a starting role for Switzerland ahead of the World Cup in 2026.
What it means for Manchester City
Should Inter exercise their option to buy, City will have to weigh squad balance and long-term planning. With several centre-backs available, and the club already undergoing a period of transition, selling Akanji could free up resources and playing time for younger or newly recruited defenders.
FAQs
Q: Is Manuel Akanji leaving Manchester City permanently?
A: Nothing is final yet. Akanji has said the decision will be made at the end of the season. Inter Milan have an option to buy, and reports suggest they may choose to make the move permanent.
Q: Why did Akanji go on loan to Inter?
A: The loan provided Akanji with the opportunity for regular first-team football after limited minutes at Manchester City last season, and to boost his prospects ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Q: How many games did Akanji play for Manchester City?
A: Akanji made 136 appearances for Manchester City before moving to Inter on loan.
Q: Who competes with Akanji for centre-back spots at City?
A: City’s defensive options include Rúben Dias, Joško Gvardiol, Nathan Aké, John Stones, and Abdukodir Khusanov.
Q: When will we know if Inter buy Akanji?
A: The decision is expected at the end of the season when Inter can choose whether to exercise the purchase option included in the loan agreement.
Conclusion
Manuel Akanji’s loan spell at Inter Milan has provided the centre-back with the consistent minutes he prioritised, and his positive comments suggest both player and club are open to a permanent transfer in summer 2026. For Manchester City, Akanji’s likely departure would be part of a wider defensive reshuffle as Pep Guardiola and the club continue to manage squad evolution and prepare for the next phase of their project.
