Manchester City might lose one of their top talents in the summer of 2026 following the report that a City defender has already declared his willingness to leave the club.
The defender, Manuel Akanji wants Inter Milan to sign him and to remain at the Italian club beyond the current campaign. He urged Inter to trigger the option that would make his stay permanent.
The Swiss international joined Inter on a season-long loan from Manchester City during the final hours of the summer transfer window.
Since arriving in Italy, he has wasted no time settling in and has quickly become an integral part of the club’s defence — a presence that has impressed fans and pundits alike.
Reports in Italy suggest that Inter are now seriously considering activating the €15 million buy clause attached to his deal, which would keep Akanji at the San Siro beyond at least 2026.
Speaking recently, Manuel Akanji wants Inter Milan to sign him, explaining that he feels at home in Milan and hopes the club will take steps to secure his future.
“We will see… I hope Inter will buy me on a permanent deal,” Akanji said as reported by Fabrizio Romano . “I feel very good here. I will give my best and then we will see.”
Akanji’s arrival was initially seen as a low-risk addition to Inter’s squad depth, but his consistent performances have quickly elevated him into one of the club’s most reliable defenders this season.
His composure on the ball, ability to read the game, and strength in one-on-one duels have drawn comparisons to some of Inter’s defensive greats.
Under the guidance, Akanji has not only regained the form that once made him one of Europe’s most promising defenders at Borussia Dortmund, but he has also adapted well to Serie A’s tactical demands. His performances have earned him praise from Italian media, with many supporters calling him the perfect fit for the club’s backline.
The €15 million fee, viewed as a bargain in today’s market, is seen as excellent value for a player with Champions League and Premier League experience.
Manuel Akanji wants Inter Milan to sign him because a permanent move could offer the stability and consistent playing time he has been craving since leaving Dortmund. At Manchester City, he was part of Pep Guardiola’s squad rotation system, often finding himself battling for minutes in a team brimming with elite defenders.
Transition at Manchester City forced Akanji out of the club
Akanji’s loan move came during a summer of major transition at the Etihad Stadium. Manchester City saw several senior figures depart as Pep Guardiola reshaped his squad for a new era.
Ilkay Gündogan joined Galatasaray, Kevin De Bruyne left for a fresh challenge, and goalkeeper Ederson Moraes also made a surprise exit.
Akanji and Jack Grealish were among those who were sent out on loan, with the expectation that both could secure permanent transfers if they impressed at their respective clubs.
Having joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, Akanji played a significant role in one of the club’s most successful periods.
During his time in Manchester, he lifted multiple trophies — including the Premier League title and the UEFA Champions League — and was widely respected for his professionalism and calm presence in defence.
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However, competition for places under Guardiola meant that consistent first-team opportunities were hard to come by. With players such as Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Nathan Aké all vying for starting roles, Akanji often found himself on the fringes despite his strong performances when called upon.
His loan to Inter presented the chance for a fresh start, and by all accounts, he has taken full advantage of it.
Now, the Swiss defender appears to have rediscovered both his rhythm and confidence. His ability to play across different defensive systems — including a back three, which Inter frequently employ — has been particularly valuable.
Moreover, his experience in European competition continues to benefit the Italian club as they compete both domestically and in the Champions League.
