Akanji explains Inter move after snubbing Milan: “The biggest club in Italy”

Manuel Akanji has lifted the lid on why he chose to join Inter after previously rejecting their city rivals AC Milan.

Last week, Milan became strongly linked with a move for Akanji who was allowed to leave Manchester City. A loan with option to buy deal was believed to have been put on the table, but the defender apparently rejected it because he wanted Champions League football.

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The Rossoneri cannot offer that after finishing eighth in the league last season, but the team across the Navigli can. Sure enough, while Milan were tying up a deal for 19-year-old Wolfsburg centre-back David Odogu, Inter landed Akanji on loan with an option to buy.

‘Biggest club in Italy’

Now, the Swiss international has spoken to Inter TV and lifted the lid on his decision to join the blue side of the city, making some rather bold statements. MilanNews relayed his comments.

“For me, Inter is the biggest club in Italy and one of the biggest in the world, and they’ve proven it over the years. It was really easy for me to choose this club,” he said.

“I can play in all three-man defence positions; I’ve also played in the center for the Swiss national team. I can play in different positions, but obviously the coach will decide where to deploy me.

“Inter have shown they’re capable of reaching major finals, and I hope we can reach the final again and win it this time. We’ve already faced each other in a final, two years ago, and this time I hope Inter wins.

“Sommer sent me a message, but I’ve received tons of messages from friends and family. Yann has offered to help me during these first few days here, and I can’t wait to meet him too. I’m really looking forward to meeting the Inter fans at San Siro for our first home game: I’m waiting for that moment.”