Akanji to make Serie A debut in big Inter game after move from Man City | OneFootball

Manuel Akanji is expected to make his Inter debut in one of the biggest games of the season tomorrow, starting against the Nerazzurri’s arch rivals, Juventus.

Swiss defender Akanji, the final Inter signing in the summer transfer window, is expected to start against Juventus on Saturday.

During a pre-match press conference on Friday, Chivu provided an update on the ex-Manchester City defender, suggesting that he’d start against the Old Lady.

Akanji expected to start in Juventus-Inter

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – JUNE 26: Manuel Akanji #25 of Manchester City is challenged by Nico Gonzalez #11 of Juventus FC during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Juventus FC and Manchester City FC at Camping World Stadium on June 26, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

“Akanji is an important player with international value and stature,” Chivu said via TMW.

“All the players are essential to contribute to the pursuit of our goals. The players I have are the best, and I’m happy with them. Akanji is ready to play.”

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Internazionale, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Inter have one victory and one defeat in the opening two Serie A games of the season. Juventus, on the other hand, have had a perfect start with two wins, three goals scored, and none conceded.

Akanji has joined Inter on an initial loan deal. The Nerazzurri have an option to make his move permanent for €15m.

Akanji meets Juventus again

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – JUNE 26: Manuel Akanji #25 of Manchester City during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Juventus FC and Manchester City FC at Camping World Stadium on June 26, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Akanji won several trophies during his time at Manchester City, including two Premier League titles and one Champions League title.

Akanji faced Juventus less than three months ago, on June 26, when his former club Manchester City beat the Old Lady 5-2 in a group stage game at the Club World Cup.