Inter Milan defender Manuel Akanji has addressed his future at the club while revealing past contact with city rivals AC Milan. Speaking to SportMediaset ahead of Inter's Coppa Italia semi-final second leg against Como, the Swiss international was asked about his long-term plans. While not confirming any ongoing negotiations, Akanji acknowledged a previous conversation with the Rossoneri, suggesting his current preference lies with the Nerazzurri.
"I spoke with Milan, but I would say that Inter..." Akanji said, leaving the sentence open but implying a commitment to his current employers. The 30-year-old centre-back joined Inter from Manchester City in the summer of 2025 and has since become a pivotal figure in Simone Inzaghi's defence. His current contract details have not been publicly disclosed, but his comments will be seen as a positive signal for Inter officials keen to retain a key player.
The context of Akanji's remarks comes at a crucial point in Inter's season, with the club closing in on a domestic double. Holding a twelve-point lead at the top of Serie A with just five matches remaining, Inter are also one step from the Coppa Italia final, hosting Como at San Siro with the semi-final tie delicately poised. Akanji described the prospect of winning two trophies in his debut season as "incredible," a clear indication of his satisfaction with his move to Italy.
Akanji's career path adds weight to his comments about Milan. Having established himself at Basel and Borussia Dortmund, his high-profile transfer to Manchester City in 2022 saw him win multiple Premier League titles before his switch to Serie A. His experience and ball-playing ability made him a target for several top clubs upon leaving England, with Milan's interest now confirmed. His form this season, however, has been instrumental in Inter's defensive solidity and their commanding league position.
For Inter, securing Akanji's long-term future would provide stability in a defensive unit that also features Alessandro Bastoni and Benjamin Pavard. His apparent dismissal of Milan's past advances will also please a fanbase deeply invested in the city's rivalry. The immediate focus, as Akanji emphasized, remains on the pitch, with the defender highlighting the challenge posed by Como despite Inter's strong league position against them this campaign. His future, while now a topic of discussion, appears likely to be resolved in favour of the current Serie A leaders.
