Manuel Akanji stated that Champions League football was one of the key reasons why he decided to join Inter.

The Swiss defender signed for Inter on a season-long loan from Manchester City, with an option to buy for €15m (£13m).

Akanji was heavily linked with a move to Inter’s rivals AC Milan, who failed to qualify for any European competition last season, ahead of the transfer deadline, but opted to move to their rivals instead.

The 30-year-old explained how Champions League football was one of a few reasons why he chose to join Inter.

“There were other options,” said Akanji.

“It wasn’t easy for my agent, but I had clear ideas. I wanted to continue playing at the top level of European football, and with Inter I will certainly be doing that.

Ascolta Class of ‘95 – Il beat di una nuova era #ForzaInter #WelcomeManuel pic.twitter.com/HzgBw5vUEH

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“Besides, the first jersey I ever owned was that of Christian Vieri, when he was playing for the club. Inter had already tried to sign me three years ago.

“Last, but not least, my sister’s boyfriend is a big Inter supporter. So yes, I already had a few links with the club.”

Akanji joined City in 2022 and has since made 85 appearances in the Premier League.

In 75 league starts, he has helped City keep 22 clean sheets while winning 67% of his tackles and 52% of his duels.

The defender said his exit from City was due to a lack of game time, but conceded that the situation was not a surprise.

“There were six central defenders in the squad, he [Pep Guardiola] openly told us it would not be easy for anyone to have regular playing time,” Akanji added.

“And that was the case. It was not an ideal situation, but I was well aware of the competition for places.”