Manuel Akanji, one of Pep Guardiola’s most reliable defenders during Manchester City’s Treble-winning 2022/23 campaign, has confirmed his intention to leave the club permanently in 2026.The Swiss international made the revelation during a recent interview with Blick, relayed by CalcioMercato and translated by Football Italia, where he expressed his happiness at Inter Milan and his wish to remain there beyond his current loan spell.
Strong Start at Inter Milan
Akanji’s move to Inter Milan was finalised late in the summer transfer window, joining on a season-long loan worth €2 million, which includes a €15 million buy option clause. However, this clause only becomes mandatory if specific performance-based and team conditions are met — such as the defender featuring in at least half of Inter’s matches and the team winning Serie A.
Despite those stipulations, Inter are said to have already internally planned for a permanent deal in 2026, with reports claiming the club has been “very happy” with Akanji’s performances and leadership.
Akanji Speaks on His Future
“I feel very good,” Akanji said in his latest interview. “The hardest part of settling in was sorting everything out for the kids, but we’re comfortable now. Italian football is a bit different from the English game, but I’ve adapted well — it helps when you play regularly.”
The 30-year-old continued, “The team welcomed me warmly, things are going great, we’re top of the table and we want to stay there.”
Reflecting on his exit from Manchester, Akanji added, “When I left Manchester City, I organised a farewell dinner, it was really nice. I haven’t been able to say goodbye to all the staff yet, but who knows what will happen next summer. As things stand, I’d love to stay at Inter.”
End of a Successful Manchester City Chapter
Akanji’s comments reinforce the growing belief that his future lies away from Manchester. Reports from earlier this year revealed that he had already given his approval to join Inter Milan before the clubs even finalised an agreement — a strong signal of his long-term intentions.
His spell at Manchester City was marked by consistent performances and tactical adaptability, proving vital in City’s historic Treble-winning season, which included triumphs in the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League.
What Happens Next
The future of Akanji’s transfer depends on Inter Milan’s financial strategy and whether the club triggers the existing purchase clause through performance metrics or renegotiates a separate permanent deal. Either way, the signs point toward a lasting move to Italy.
For Manchester City, the departure of a seasoned defender like Akanji would close a respected chapter one defined by professionalism, tactical reliability, and crucial contributions during one of the club’s most dominant eras under Pep Guardiola.
