Man City Star Exposes Pep Guardiola's Ruthless Words That Triggered His Shocking Summer Exit
Manuel Akanji, who secured a treble triumph with Manchester City, departed the club via loan on Transfer Deadline Day to link up with Cristian Chivu at Inter Milan.
The arrangement was reportedly valued at €2 million (£1.7 million; $2.3 million) upfront with a €15 million buy-out option. This option transforms into a mandatory purchase if the Swiss center-back features in 50% of matches or if the Nerazzurri claim the Serie A title. This appears to stem from Pep Guardiola's desire for a more compact squad during this summer's transfer period, leaving Akanji marginalized as the window approached its conclusion.
The 30-year-old disclosed Guardiola's communication during the summer that led to his departure.
"He communicated clearly to us six center-backs that two would start and two would sit on the substitutes' bench. And that it would be challenging for the others. That wasn't pleasant to hear, as I always anticipate being on the field," Akanji stated during a press conference while on international duty.
The Switzerland defender simply replied: "You'll need to ask him," when pressed about why he lost favor. Akanji was included in two of Man City's opening three squad lists this season, but failed to leave the bench. Guardiola has favored a combination of Abdukodir Khusanov, John Stones, Nathan Aké and Rúben Dias.
Akanji remains tied to City through a contract until 2027 and hasn't dismissed a potential return to the blue half of Manchester. He emphasized that despite enthusiasm about joining Inter, he and his family felt settled in the North West of England.
Throughout Man City's treble-winning season in 2022–23, Akanji featured in 29 Premier League matches mainly as a central defender. He occasionally operated in wide positions and started in the Champions League final where the Sky Blues overcame Akanji's current club.
The Swiss defender aims to make his Inter debut upon returning from international commitments, with a challenging derby against Juventus lined up for next Saturday in Turin.