Manuel Akanji has ruled out a January return to Manchester City and is set to start for Inter against Arsenal, stressing Inter’s improved defensive shape. Betting angle: with Akanji bolstering the back line expect a tight game — punters may favour under 2.5 goals or Inter +1 Asian handicap as value given their recent defensive form.
Akanji rules out January return to Manchester City
Manuel Akanji confirmed there is "no possibility" of a January switch back to Manchester City and indicated his future is focused on Inter. The club signed him on loan with an option to buy last summer, and that option will become mandatory if Inter secure the Scudetto this season.
Akanji ready for Arsenal test in Champions League
Akanji stressed he is ready for tomorrow’s Champions League meeting with Arsenal, calling them "among the best teams in Europe" but not "the very best." The defender has become a mainstay under coach Cristian Chivu, making 25 appearances across all competitions and logging 2,057 minutes this campaign. He is expected to start at the back at San Siro.
What Akanji said about Arsenal and the challenge ahead
"I think Arsenal are among the best teams in Europe. For me they're not the very best, but they are certainly among the top sides, so it will be a great challenge, but we're ready," Akanji said. He warned Inter must be "ruthless and clinical" in front of goal and "tidy in possession," adding that against top teams "every mistake can be punished."
Tactical role, Chivu relationship and squad progress
Akanji praised Chivu's openness and the coach’s role in his development, noting he has been used in different positions, including a brief stint as a holding midfielder. "I can play anywhere and always give my maximum to help the team, but my role is as a defender," he said. He credited the group with defensive improvements — conceding fewer chances — while also pointing to increased offensive efficiency.
Club aims and European perspective
Akanji named Bayern Munich as "the strongest team in Europe right now" and reiterated Inter's domestic priority: winning the Scudetto. On the continental stage, he set a realistic target: "Our first goal is to finish in the top eight" of the Champions League before gauging further ambitions.
Implications for bettors and match outlook
With Akanji likely to start and Inter emphasising defensive solidity, expect a tighter contest than last season’s meetings. Arsenal remain a major attacking threat, especially from set pieces, so markets to consider include under 2.5 goals and Inter +1 Asian handicap for value. Monitor lineups for set-piece specialists and Akanji’s confirmed presence before placing any bets.
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