Manuel Akanji will be one of Inter Milan’s key figures against Napoli at San Siro, with the defender outlining his approach to the Hojlund challenge and praising Cristian Chivu ahead of the showdown...
Manuel Akanji will be one of Inter Milan’s key figures against Napoli at San Siro, with the defender outlining his approach to the Hojlund challenge and praising Cristian Chivu ahead of the showdown.
Speaking to DAZN on the eve of the match, Akanji made it clear that the objective is non-negotiable.
“We want to win this game, which for us at home is very important,” the Swiss international said, pointing to Inter’s strong momentum.
“It’s been a good week for us. We know the other teams dropped points in the last round and we won. If we win tomorrow, we can take a good advantage.”
Inter Vs Napoli – Akanji Looks Ahead To Hojlund Duel
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Manuel Akanji of FC Internazionale during the warm up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Liverpool FC at Stadio San Siro on December 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Akanji stressed that Inter’s focus must remain internal as much as external.
“We have to be concentrated a bit on the opponent, but above all on ourselves,” he explained.
“If we play our football, I believe everything will go well.”
The conversation inevitably turned to his direct duel with Rasmus Hojlund.
Akanji did not underestimate the Napoli forward, describing him as “strong, fast and able to score”, but was keen to frame the challenge as a collective task.
“I’ll have to stay alert at all times,” he said.
“But it doesn’t depend only on me. It’s a team matter. We defend together and we attack together.”
On a personal level, he added, “I need to be ready for duels, but it involves the whole team.”
Akanji also spoke warmly about his experience under Cristian Chivu. “I’ve felt comfortable here since the first day,” he said.
“Everyone welcomed me well.”
On his role within the back three, the defender highlighted the coach’s trust.
“The coach has given me confidence. I feel comfortable both as a central defender and as a wide centre-back. For me, it doesn’t make much difference.”
With confidence high and responsibilities clear, Akanji is set to be one of the key figures in a night that could shape the title race.
Category: General Sports
