Manuel Akanji Shocks Milan with Dramatic Last-Minute Man City Departure

Following interest from multiple European clubs, Manuel Akanji has officially confirmed his departure from Manchester to sign with Inter.

Akanji found himself at the heart of transfer rumors throughout the summer as Pep Guardiola continues reshaping his roster. The 30-year-old had previously been connected to Galatasaray, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United and Milan, however Inter ultimately secured his services.

"The Swiss centre-back, born in 1995, has joined on loan from Manchester City with an option to purchase, which becomes mandatory should specific criteria be fulfilled," Inter announced in their official statement.

Sky Italia indicates the agreement involves an initial €2 million (£1.7 million; $2.3 million) payment. The arrangement features a €15 million (£13 million, $17.5 million) buy option, becoming compulsory if the Swiss international participates in at least 50% of matches or if Inter claims the Serie A title.

Akanji's departure follows three campaigns and seven titles with Manchester City. The defender accumulated 136 appearances wearing the sky blue jersey and operated in all four defensive positions under Guardiola's system.

The ex-Borussia Dortmund player's 2024–25 season was disrupted by injuries that forced him to sit out 19 fixtures across all tournaments. Despite returning to full fitness, Akanji found himself sidelined by Guardiola this term, failing to earn any playing time in Man City's opening three matches.

Rather, the Spanish tactician opted to start John Stones, Rúben Dias and Abdukodir Khusanov at central defense in Man City's initial fixtures of the 2025–26 Premier League campaign. The Citizens have endured consecutive losses against Tottenham and Brighton, however, allowing four goals in the process.

Akanji now gets an opportunity for a new beginning in Italy working under Cristian Chivu. Inter will appreciate the defensive addition following Benjamin Pavard's transfer to Olympique Marseille. Additionally, the Italian powerhouse recently experienced a disappointing 2–1 loss to Udinese over the weekend.

Man City have now released more than 20 players since the summer transfer window opened.