Manuel Akanji made his debut against Betis with a convincing performance. At the end of the match, the Swiss defender gave some statements collected by La Gazzetta dello Sport, touching on various topics including the integration of new signings and European ambitions.

“It was a challenging second half, but I’m happy. I don’t think it will take long to get back to 100%, also because I was on vacation for three weeks and, as I usually do, I kept training anyway. Now I can’t wait to get serious with Monza: another season is a new beginning,” he said.

In Bari, Akanji was reunited with John Stones, who scored on his debut. “I’m really happy for him, and besides, Betis is a great team. Now he has to do it again in the next match, it can’t end here… (laughs). It was funny because, on the very day his arrival was confirmed, just a few hours earlier my wife and I met his wife on the beach in Ibiza. Pure coincidence. We’re friends and have vacationed together, and she told us: ‘I think we’ll end up coming…’. Then, a few hours later, at home I see John’s message. Now I’m trying to introduce him to Inter. But he’s a great guy, he’ll adapt quickly.”

On the tactical adaptation from the Premier League, the Swiss explained: “Physically, coming from the Premier you’re already very prepared. Tactically, though, it’s different. I, with Stones, played in a back four at City and had to adapt. For me, it happened quite quickly and I know John: he can do everything and he won’t have any problems either. Obviously, he’ll need help from teammates and staff, but he’s ended up in the right place.”

“For me, defending is… the most beautiful thing in the world. The most important part of my game. Both John and I like to build from the back and have the ball at our feet but, obviously, the priority is marking. In these aspects at Inter we’ve really done an excellent defensive job, as a team. Personally, I like playing in multiple positions also because the coach helps me and gives a certain freedom. I’d say the coach really understands defenders. I remember him for the helmet, but also for his elegance and strength in duels, he almost seemed to enjoy the clashes. Just the other day I watched the Netflix doc on Mourinho and he was there too: he doesn’t speak, but what tackles he made on Messi in the year of the Treble! All very exciting.”

With the arrival of the Englishman, competition has also increased. “That’s exactly what we need to compete not only in Italy, but also in the Champions. We have a very tough defense, among the best, and a great team: in every position there are at least two excellent players. Now we need to integrate the new ones into the system, but competition in training will be high and that improves everyone.”

Akanji now feels part of the Nerazzurri family. “It has something special. From the very first day I felt welcomed by the team, the fans, and everyone around the club. There are still things to improve and our goal is to achieve that, but this is now home. Sommer will be missed, but I’ve made many friends here, as well as being reunited with John. My children go to the same school as Mkhitaryan’s children, and I have a great relationship with Calha and Bisseck.”

On the objectives in the Champions League: “We must not be afraid of anyone, never go onto the pitch with doubts about being able to win. We can face any opponent thinking we can beat them, but obviously we have to prove it. In the league and Coppa Italia we did it, while in the Champions we went out early and that’s not the standard for Inter. We know we can do better, but everything must always be shown with performances.”

Finally, the Swiss confirmed his decision on penalties. “Am I still convinced not to take them anymore? Yes. Against Colombia in the round of 16, what frustrated me wasn’t so much the miss itself, but having too many doubts, also because I had already missed my last two penalties in tournaments with Switzerland. If I shoot well and the goalkeeper saves, I accept it. I don’t accept being eaten up by thoughts before kicking. So that’s it: I fight for 120 minutes, from now on I’ll leave penalties to my teammates.”

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