19 Facts About Manuel Akanji

Internationally, Manuel Akanji represents Switzerland, making his debut for the senior team in 2017 after featuring for the under-20 and under-21 sides.

Manuel Akanji was a member of Switzerland's squad for two editions of the UEFA European Championship, in 2020 and 2024, as well as two FIFA World Cups, in 2018 and 2022.

Manuel Akanji began his youth career with the local club in Wiesendangen.

In May 2007, Manuel Akanji changed clubs and was a youth-team player for FC Winterthur, featuring for their under-18 team and later with their second team.

Manuel Akanji made his Swiss Super League debut on 26 September 2015 being substituted in against FC Lugano.

Manuel Akanji played the full 90 minutes in all six games and helped the team finish second in its group, thus qualifying for the knockout phase.

Manuel Akanji was one of the main players singled out as a weak link in the team.

Manuel Akanji made two appearances for the Switzerland U-20 national team.

Manuel Akanji was included in Switzerland's 23-man squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and started all four of the team's matches as they reached the round of 16.

In May 2019, Manuel Akanji played in 2019 UEFA Nations League Finals, where his team finished fourth.

Manuel Akanji started all five of Switzerland's matches as they reached the quarter-finals, scoring his kick as the Swiss beat France in a penalty shootout in the round of 16.

On 7 June 2024, Manuel Akanji was named in Switzerland's squad for UEFA Euro 2024.

Manuel Akanji helped Switzerland reach the quarter-finals for a second consecutive European Championship, where his team was eventually eliminated by England on penalties.

Manuel Akanji is known for his cultured style of play, which is characterized by his technical ability, composure on the ball, and excellent passing range.

Manuel Akanji is a strong and physical defender who is comfortable in one-on-one situations and is adept at intercepting passes and making tackles.

Manuel Akanji's passing ability is a key part of his game, and he is often involved in building attacks from the back.

Manuel Akanji's long-range passing is particularly noteworthy, and he is capable of playing accurate diagonal balls to switch the play and create space for his teammates.

Manuel Akanji was born in Wiesendangen, Switzerland, to a Swiss mother and a Nigerian father.

Manuel Akanji's sister Sarah is a former footballer for FC Winterthur Frauen and Social Democratic Party of Switzerland politician.