Revealed – Why Inter Milan Decided To Sign Swiss Center-Back From Manchester City On Deadline Day | OneFootball

Inter Milan signed Manuel Akanji from Manchester City at the tail-end of the summer transfer window to bolster their defense.

According to Corriere dello Sport via FCInterNews, the Nerazzurri made this purchase to replace Benjamin Pavard.

Despite being heavily linked with a summer exit, the French star nearly stayed at San Siro.

However, Olympique Marseille snatched him away on the final day of the transfer window.

With Benjamin Pavard gone, Inter had to intervene in the market to fill the gap at the back.

Why Inter Milan Signed Manuel Akanji from Manchester City

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 02: Manuel Akanji of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC at Emirates Stadium on February 02, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Akanji had been one of Pep Guardiola’s most trusted defenders for years.

Yet, his influence dwindled last season, leading to wild summer speculation linking him with several clubs.

Among others, Inter’s bitter rivals, AC Milan, had tried to lure the Swiss ace to Serie A but to no avail.

However, the 30-year-old rejected the move.

On the other hand, Manuel Akanji didn’t have to think twice before accepting Inter’s offer.

Therefore, he has joined the club on loan with an option to buy, which will become mandatory if Inter win the Scudetto.