It has not been the best of seasons for Manuel Akanji at Manchester City.
The centre-back is in his third campaign now with the club after transferring from Borussia Dortmund for around £15 million, and the star hasn’t quite been able to show his best level.
Manuel Akanji was outstanding in the Treble-winning season, quickly and firmly establishing himself as a major bargain.
He then followed that up with a great second season that saw City win a fourth consecutive Premier League title.
But this term, Akanji – like a lot of his teammates – has struggled. At the moment Akanji is sidelined through injury and faces a battle to play again before the campaign finishes.
There’s been a lot of talk about players leaving the Etihad Stadium this summer.
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But Akanji hasn’t really been mentioned as a possible outgoing – until now.
Manuel Akanji offered to Real Madrid, but there’s a key reason they don’t want him
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
It’s been reported by Marca that Akanji has actually been offered to Real Madrid by intermediaries.
Interestingly it’s reported by the Spanish outlet that Akanji fancies a change of scenery and wants to look for another experience.
But Real Madrid apparently don’t actually have interest in the player, with one key reason being offered.
The Spanish giants have a greater focus on signing younger players ‘who are going to dominate for a decade’.
Of course, Akanji no longer falls into the category of a young player, turning 30 in July.
But Marca do suggest that Akanji is looking for a way out of City. But if that’s the case, then intermediaries may have no luck getting him to the Bernabeu.
Man City should keep Akanji
It will be interesting to see what happens with Akanji this summer and if there is any truth in him wanting a new challenge.
It would be a shame if that was the case, because Akanji still has plenty to offer for City.
He’s not had a particularly good season. But the whole campaign has been forgettable for a number of players who have previously been so good.
Manuel Akanji for Man City
Appearances – 126
Goals – 5
Assists – 2
Trophies won – 7
Ultimately, Akanji has been a great signing for City, playing 126 games to date.
He has played far more than many would have expected him to when he first signed. But he’s deserved to have the involvement he’s had, because he’s been so consistent in lots of different positions.
Hopefully, he’ll stick around this summer – unless of course, a huge offer comes in for him that meets of exceeds City’s valuation of him.