Inter Milan Defender Confident Ahead Of Duel With AC Milan Star: ‘I’ll Show You How To Mark Him’ | OneFootball

Inter Milan centre-back Manuel Akanji has spoken confidently ahead of Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina against rivals AC Milan, insisting he will prove his ability in one of the club’s biggest matches.

Speaking to DAZN at San Siro, with quotes via FCInterNews, he said he is “very happy to be playing it from the Nerazzurri side – it’s one of the biggest games in the world.”

For Akanji, the derby isn’t just a match, it’s a moment of pride. It is his first since arriving on loan from Manchester City on deadline day.

His loan contains an option to buy, that becomes an obligation under certain conditions.

His strong start to life at Inter indicates he’ll likely become a permanent fixture for the Nerazzurri.

He also revealed how he plans to handle perhaps the game’s most dangerous opponent: Rafael Leão. “I’ll show you tonight how to mark him. He’s definitely a great player, but I believe in my own qualities. It will be a big match for that reason too.”

Inter Vs Milan – Akanji On Home Derby Impact

MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: Manuel Akanji of Internazionale acknowledges the fans after the team’s victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Akanji admitted that the national team break helped him reset: “I feel very good after the international break, both individually and as a team. We know we’re facing a tough game, but we want the three points.”

He underlined the importance of playing at home talking to InterTV, with quotes via FCInterNews.

“We’re playing the derby at home, and of course we want to score and win in front of our fans. I know our supporters will be incredible, like in the Premier League; I’m ready to face this match with great concentration.”

When asked what Milan’s biggest danger is, Akanji pointed to their transition game.

“We know they have many high-quality players, and we must be careful when they counter. We must keep constant pressure on them.”