Guardiola’s Brutal Honesty: The Message That Sent Manuel Akanji to Inter Milan

Manchester City’s treble-winning defender, Manuel Akanji, has shed light on the stark conversation with manager Pep Guardiola that ultimately led to his Deadline Day loan move to Inter Milan. The Swiss international’s departure underscores Guardiola’s relentless pursuit of a streamlined squad, even at the cost of losing proven talent.

Guardiola’s Squad Philosophy in Action

Pep Guardiola has long championed the benefits of a compact squad, believing it fosters greater cohesion and intensity. This philosophy was a driving force behind City’s summer transfer strategy, which saw several players depart. Akanji, despite his significant contributions to City’s historic treble, found himself a casualty of this approach as the transfer window drew to a close.

The Conversation That Changed Everything

Speaking during international duty, Akanji revealed the blunt assessment he received from his former manager:

“He made it clear to us six central defenders that two would play and two would be on the bench. And that it would be difficult for the rest. That wasn’t nice to hear, because I always expect to be on the pitch.”

This candid admission highlights the fierce competition for places within City’s ranks and Guardiola’s unwavering commitment to his selection criteria. For a player of Akanji’s caliber, who started in the Champions League final just months prior, such a message was undoubtedly a difficult pill to swallow.

A Move to Milan: New Beginnings for Akanji

Akanji’s loan to Inter Milan is initially valued at €2 million (£1.7 million; $2.3 million), with a €15 million purchase clause. This option transforms into an obligation if the Swiss defender features in 50% of games or if the Nerazzurri clinch the Serie A title. This structure provides a clear pathway for a permanent transfer, reflecting both clubs’ intentions.

Despite being named in two of City’s first three matchday squads this season, Akanji remained on the bench, with Guardiola preferring a rotation of Abdukodir Khusanov, John Stones, Nathan Aké, and Rúben Dias. This depth at centre-back further underscores the challenge Akanji faced in securing regular playing time.

A Treble Winner’s Legacy and Future

During City’s historic 2022-23 campaign, Akanji was a vital cog, making 29 Premier League appearances and starting in the Champions League final against his new club, Inter Milan. His versatility, often playing across the backline, proved invaluable. Despite the positive feelings surrounding his move to Inter, Akanji, who is still under contract with City until 2027, did not rule out a potential return to Manchester, highlighting his family’s comfort in the North West of England.

Akanji is expected to make his Inter debut after the international break, with a highly anticipated derby against Juventus scheduled for next Saturday in Turin. This high-stakes encounter will be an immediate test of his acclimatization to Italian football and his new team’s ambitions under Cristian Chivu.

For more insights into Pep Guardiola’s transfer strategies and their impact on Manchester City, read about his past transfer decisions.