Man City Star Reveals Brutal Pep Guardiola Message That Resulted in Summer Move

Manchester City treble winner Manuel Akanji has joined Inter Milan on loan on Deadline Day, reuniting with manager Cristian Chivu. The deal includes an initial €2 million fee and a €15 million purchase clause, which becomes mandatory if Akanji plays in 50% of Inter's games or if the club wins Serie A.

The move follows Pep Guardiola's decision to reduce squad size, leaving Akanji as an out-of-favor player. Guardiola informed six central defenders that only two would start and two would be on the bench, making it difficult for the rest. Akanji expressed disappointment, stating he always expected to play.

Akanji, who did not feature in Manchester City's first three matchday squads beyond bench appearances, fell behind defenders like Abdukodir Khusanov, John Stones, Nathan Aké, and Rúben Dias. When asked about losing favor, he responded, "You’ll have to ask him," referring to Guardiola.

Despite the loan, Akanji remains under contract with Manchester City until 2027 and did not rule out a return, noting he and his family were comfortable in Northwest England. During City's treble-winning 2022–23 season, he made 29 Premier League appearances, primarily as a center-back, and started in the Champions League final victory over Inter Milan.

Akanji is expected to make his Inter debut after the international break, with a potential first match in the derby against Juventus next Saturday.