Manuel Akanji Inter Milan
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - SEPTEMBER 17: Manuel Akanji of Internazionale is challenged by Kenneth Taylor of AFC Ajax during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between AFC Ajax and FC Internazionale Milano at Johan Cruijff Arena on September 17, 2025 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Manchester City loanee Manuel Akanji has made a superb start to his career at Inter Milan.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport via FCInter1908, the Swiss star has been the ‘most frequently played’ Nerazzurri defender this season.
Despite facing stiff competition for places, Manuel Akanji has already established himself as a key figure in Inter’s backline.
Signed from Man City on a season-long loan, Akanji has convinced Inter to activate a buyout option in his loan deal already.
Indeed, the Nerazzurri will reportedly splash €15 million in June to make his transfer permanent.
Manuel Akanji Most Used Inter Milan Defender in 2025/26
Manuel Akanji Inter Milan
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Manuel Akanji of FC Internazionale in action during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Though we’re only eight games into the new season, Akanji has earned everyone’s trust.
More importantly, Cristian Chivu trusts the 30-year-old more than any other Inter Milan defender.
For perspective, Akanji has started all four Serie A matches since arriving on deadline day.
Moreover, he made the starting XI against Ajax in the Champions League before being rested against Slavia Prague.
Therefore, the star center-back has collected 473 minutes on the pitch, at least 51 more than any other Nerazzurri defender.