Revealed – Why Man City Star Rejected AC Milan To Join Inter Milan | OneFootball

Man City defender Manuel Akanji decided to reject AC Milan and join Inter Milan on loan due to wanting Champions League football.

This according to Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia, via FCInterNews.

In the last remaining hours of the transfer window, Inter have identified Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji as a transfer target.

The 30-year-old is set to leave City this summer. The Premier League giants have been working to trim their squad this summer, particularly in defense.

And Inter have been in search of a defensive signing before the window closes.

The Nerazzurri have agreed a deal to loan Benjamin Pavard to Marseille. Therefore, they need a replacement for the Frenchman.

Man City Defender Manuel Akanji Rejects AC Milan For Inter Due To Champions League Football

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JUNE 22: Manuel Akanji #25 of Manchester City controls the ball during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Manchester City FC and Al Ain FC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 22, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

As Sky Sport Italia note, Inter’s city rivals AC Milan had already been trying to sign Akanji.

And City were willing to agree a deal with the Rossoneri.

However, the player himself was reluctant to green light the move.

Sky Sport Italia report that the reason for this was that Akanji wants Champions League football next season. Therefore, he rejected the offer from Milan.

On the other hand, the broadcaster report, Akanji is willing to accept Inter’s offer, as it gives him the chance to stay in Europe’s top club competition.