After Manchester City lost the English championship to Liverpool, ending a four-year streak of victories, Josep Guardiola decided to make serious changes in the squad. One of these changes will be the move of central defender Manuel Akanji to Galatasaray.
Akanji Transfer: A Necessary Step for New Opportunities
Akanji was brought to City in the summer of 2022 for about £15 million from Borussia Dortmund and finished his debut season with a treble. He played a key role in the victories in the Premier League, FA Cup, and the club’s first-ever UEFA Champions League win. However, as Akanji recently turned 30, his game has been criticized, and his departure now seems like a logical step.
Opening the Way for Youth
According to Stephen McInerney’s analysis, Akanji’s move to Galatasaray can be beneficial for the club. He believes that Akanji was blocking the path of younger defenders, and now it’s time to give opportunities to players like Vitor Reis and Abduqodir Husainov. McInerney highly values their potential and hopes to see them in the City lineup.
Squad Rebuilding: A New Path for the Team
Manchester City has started the process of reshaping its squad, and this is a logical decision, says McInerney. Akanji’s departure will open up opportunities for young players. Additionally, although Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol form a very strong tandem, it is important to strengthen the squad with new talents.
"Despite Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol forming a very strong tandem at 'Manchester City', I want to see younger central defenders like Husainov and Vitor Reis on the pitch. Their potential is huge, and in the process of reshaping the squad, Akanji’s departure opens up the way for them," McInerney says.
A New Chapter for Akanji: Opportunities in Turkey
Meanwhile, Akanji is considering continuing his career in Turkey. McInerney believes this could give the defender new opportunities for development and a career reorientation. His move to Galatasaray may open new horizons for him.
According to McInerney, Akanji’s departure will be beneficial for the team, as it will bring in young, motivated players. These transfers will create a competitive atmosphere and take Manchester City to the next stage.
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