Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola’s Praises Inter Milan New Boy: “Helped Us Become Club We Are” | OneFootball

Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola has thanked Inter Milan summer signing Manuel Akanji, after the Swiss defender “helped us become the club we are.”

Pep Guardiola gave his first press conference since the transfer window closed today, ahead of City’s game against rivals Manchester United.

Akanji completed a deadline day move from the Cityzens to Inter, on a season-long loan.

The deal also includes a buy option that becomes an obligation under certain conditions for €15 million.

Akanji could make his debut for the Nerazzurri this weekend in Saturday’s Derby d’Italia clash against Juventus.

It kicks off at 18:00 Italian time on Saturday evening, at the Allianz Stadium.

Guardiola Thanks New Inter Milan Boy Manuel Akanji

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 02: Manuel Akanji of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC at Emirates Stadium on February 02, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Guardiola opened his press conference with a thanks, with quotes via FcInterNews.

“First of all, I think Eddie [Ederson, ed], Gundo [Gundogan, ed] and Manu all deserve a special mention.”

Ederson and Gundogan completed moves late in the window to join Turkish clubs Fenerbahce and Galatasaray respectively.

Guardiola continued, “Without them, it would have been unthinkable to do what we did.”

The Catalan coach was grateful for their efforts.

“I personally wish all of them the very best because they helped us so much to be what we are.”

Meanwhile, Inter are excited to see their new signing in action, who adds top level experience to an already talented side.