Manuel Akanji, born on July 19, 1995, is a rising star in the world of football. A Swiss professional footballer, Akanji plays as a central defender for Premier League club Manchester City and the Switzerland national team. He has earned praise for his composure on the ball, tactical awareness, and strong defensive abilities. Since his move to Manchester City in 2022, he has become an integral part of their defense, helping the club continue to dominate both domestically and internationally.
In this article, we’ll explore Manuel Akanji’s career journey, his physical attributes, his personal life, and his notable achievements in 2024. Whether you are a football fan or someone just curious about this talented player, you will find an in-depth look at his life and career.
Summary of Manuel Akanji
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Manuel Obafemi Akanji |
| Born | July 19, 1995, in Wiesendangen, Switzerland |
| Age | 29 years old (as of December 2024) |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters) |
| Jersey Number | 25 (Manchester City) |
| Position | Central Defender |
| Transfer to Manchester City | September 2022 (from Borussia Dortmund) |
| Nationality | Swiss, with Nigerian heritage |
| Known for | Strong defending, composure, technical ability |
| Injury Record | Minor injuries (no major long-term injuries) |
Key Takeaways
- Manuel Akanji is a Swiss footballer playing for Manchester City and the Switzerland national team.
- Known for his defensive skills and technical ability, Akanji has become a key player for City since his transfer in 2022.
- He stands at 6 feet 2 inches tall and is often seen as one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League.
- His strong performances on the field have earned him recognition both in domestic leagues and international competitions.
- Akanji’s personal life includes his relationship with his wife, and his family background reflects his Nigerian heritage.
Manuel Akanji’s Career and Transfer to Manchester City
Manuel Akanji began his football journey at FC Winterthur before making a move to FC Basel in Switzerland. His time at Basel was marked by impressive performances in the Swiss Super League, which helped him earn a spot on the national team. In January 2018, Akanji took a significant step forward in his career by transferring to Borussia Dortmund, a top Bundesliga club.
During his time at Dortmund, Akanji’s reputation as a solid, reliable central defender grew rapidly. He was known for his excellent positioning, speed, and ability to read the game. In September 2022, he made another high-profile transfer, this time to Manchester City, where he joined the Premier League giants for a reported fee of £15 million. Since then, Akanji has been an important part of City’s defensive lineup, helping them maintain their status as one of the best teams in Europe.
How Tall is Manuel Akanji?
Manuel Akanji stands at an impressive 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters), a height that gives him a significant advantage in aerial duels and defending against set pieces. His height, combined with his athleticism and agility, makes him a formidable force in both defensive and attacking situations. Akanji is also known for his speed, which allows him to track back quickly and cover ground in situations where other defenders might struggle.
Manuel Akanji’s Age and Stats in 2024
As of December 2024, Akanji is 29 years old. Despite being in the prime of his career, he has already achieved a great deal. Over the years, he has gained experience playing in the UEFA Champions League, the Premier League, and international competitions for Switzerland.
In the 2024-2025 season, Akanji’s stats are a testament to his importance in Manchester City’s defense. His interceptions, clearances, and pass completion rate have been consistently high, and he continues to play a crucial role in the team’s backline. Additionally, he is often involved in build-up plays, showcasing his ability to contribute to City’s attacking transitions.
Is Manuel Akanji Married?
Yes, Manuel Akanji is married. He tied the knot with his wife, known to be a private individual, a few years ago. Akanji is known to keep his personal life out of the public eye, but his relationship with his wife has been a source of support throughout his career. While details about his family life are kept private, it’s clear that Akanji values his close-knit relationships and enjoys spending time with his loved ones away from the spotlight.
Manuel Akanji’s Injury Concerns
Like many footballers, Manuel Akanji has had to deal with injuries throughout his career. However, he has generally been fortunate in terms of avoiding long-term injuries. In 2024, he faced a few minor injuries, but none of them significantly impacted his ability to play at a high level. His durability and fitness are key reasons why he has been able to maintain a regular spot in Manchester City’s starting lineup.
Manuel Akanji’s Jersey Number
At Manchester City, Manuel Akanji wears the number 25 jersey. This number has become synonymous with his strong defensive performances on the field. Whether he’s dealing with opposition forwards or leading his team out of tricky situations, Akanji’s jersey number has become a symbol of reliability and solid defending.
Manuel Akanji’s Parents and Heritage
Manuel Akanji’s background is a blend of Swiss and Nigerian heritage. His father is Nigerian, and his mother is Swiss, which gives Akanji a unique cultural identity. He has often spoken about the influence of his parents in shaping his values and work ethic. His mixed heritage is a source of pride, and he represents Switzerland at the international level, but he has also expressed gratitude for his Nigerian roots.
Manuel Akanji’s Impact at Manchester City
Manuel Akanji’s addition to Manchester City in 2022 was seen as a major boost to their defense. Since arriving, he has formed a solid partnership with the likes of Ruben Dias and John Stones. His quick thinking and ability to read the game have made him one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League.
In the 2024-2025 season, his performances have been pivotal in helping Manchester City stay competitive in both domestic and European competitions. Akanji’s understanding of the game, his speed, and his ability to build play from the back have been instrumental in City’s attacking transitions, making him an asset in Pep Guardiola’s tactical setup.
FAQ
How old is Manuel Akanji?
Manuel Akanji is 29 years old, as of December 2024. He was born on July 19, 1995.
What is Manuel Akanji’s height?
Manuel Akanji is 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters) tall, which gives him an advantage in both defense and aerial duels.
Is Manuel Akanji married?
Yes, Manuel Akanji is married. However, he tends to keep his personal life private, and his wife is not a public figure.
What is Manuel Akanji’s jersey number?
Manuel Akanji wears the number 25 jersey for Manchester City, which he has become known for since joining the club.
Who are Manuel Akanji’s parents?
Akanji’s father is Nigerian, and his mother is Swiss. He proudly represents Switzerland internationally, though he also embraces his Nigerian heritage.
Has Manuel Akanji suffered any major injuries?
While Manuel Akanji has had minor injuries throughout his career, he has avoided long-term injuries that would impact his playing time. He is known for his durability and fitness.
What has been Manuel Akanji’s impact at Manchester City?
Akanji has become an essential part of Manchester City’s defense, known for his excellent positioning, tactical awareness, and ability to contribute to the team’s attacking transitions. His strong performances have helped City maintain their competitive edge.
- Summary of Manuel Akanji
- Manuel Akanji’s Career and Transfer to Manchester City
- How Tall is Manuel Akanji?
- Manuel Akanji’s Age and Stats in 2024
- Is Manuel Akanji Married?
- Manuel Akanji’s Injury Concerns
- Manuel Akanji’s Jersey Number
- Manuel Akanji’s Parents and Heritage
- Manuel Akanji’s Impact at Manchester City
- FAQ