Akanji admits he snubbed AC Milan for Inter move

Inter defender Manuel Akanji has confirmed he held transfer talks with AC Milan last summer before ultimately deciding that joining the Nerazzurri was the superior career move.

The Swiss international of Nigerian descent, who arrived at the San Siro on loan from Manchester City in September 2025, opened up about the cross-town interest during a recent interview with Sport Mediaset.

Akanji revealed that while the Rossoneri were a serious option, his intuition led him to the blue side of the city.

“I spoke to Milan in the summer, but I thought Inter was a better fit for me, and I’d say it worked out,” Akanji stated. “My agent negotiated with the club, and it was better for me to come here.”

The 30-year-old center-back explained that the decision was rooted in finding the right environment to maintain his high level of play after three successful seasons in England.

He noted that after speaking with Pep Guardiola about reduced playing time at Manchester City, he sought a project where he could remain a protagonist.

The choice has proven prophetic. Since joining Cristian Chivu’s squad, Akanji has become a pillar of a defense that has kept 14 clean sheets in 31 league appearances.

His arrival has coincided with Inter establishing a dominant 12-point lead at the top of the Serie A table, putting them on the verge of another Scudetto.

Reflecting on the negotiations, Akanji emphasized the role of his representatives in securing the move to Inter over their rivals.

“The team and coach made it very easy for me to fit in. I feel great playing here in both positions, both in midfield and on the right in a back three. I’ve had a really great season, and we’ll try to finish it strong.

“If and when we win these trophies, the time will come to sit down and decide how to move forward. I feel great here, but I don’t think it’s the right time to talk about it. It will come soon, but right now I’m focused on playing well.”