Manuel Akanji

Manuel Obafemi Akanji, a steadfast presence in defence, has carved out an impressive career in football, showcasing his abilities across several top European leagues. Born on 19 July 1995 in Switzerland, Akanji began his professional journey in 2014 with FC Winterthur, where he made his debut at the youthful age of 19. His early promise was quickly recognised, leading to a move to FC Basel in 2015, where he thrived as part of a dominant side that claimed consecutive Swiss Super League titles in 2016 and 2017, along with a Swiss Cup victory in the latter year.

In January 2018, Akanji made a significant step up in his career by joining Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga. During his tenure in Germany, he became an integral part of the team, contributing to their triumph in the 2019 DFL-Supercup and the 2020–21 DFB-Pokal. His performances showcased not just his defensive prowess, but also his ability to play out from the back, making him a modern defender well-suited to the demands of top-flight football.

The summer of 2022 saw Akanji take another leap, this time to the Premier League with Manchester City. His inaugural season at the Etihad Stadium was nothing short of spectacular, culminating in a historic continental treble, as City clinched the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League titles in 2023. His adaptation to the Premier League has been seamless, highlighting his versatility and tactical awareness.

In 2023, Akanji embarked on a new chapter, joining Inter Milan on loan, further enriching his experience in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues. On the international stage, he has represented Switzerland since 2017, participating in two FIFA World Cups and two UEFA European Championships. With his solid defensive skills and leadership qualities, Akanji continues to be a key figure for both club and country, embodying the spirit of a modern defender.