Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji has spoken out on how he has settled into life at the Etihad following his solid start to the season so far.
The 27-year-old joined Pep Guardiola's side from Borussia Dortmund in September and was particularly impressive as the Blue swept aside intercity rivals Manchester United by 6-3 earlier this month. Starting eight times for City, plaudits are often shifted toward the side's attacking players, but Akanji rightly deserves his praise.
Enjoying a superb rise through the footballing world to reach the pinnacle here in the Premier League, the Swiss international has spoken out on how the move came to fruition, including a sly word from Erling Haaland in the process.
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''Everything happened late in the transfer window to be honest,'' Akanji told Sportsmail. ''It was through my agent but Erling also texted me saying he had heard something and saying that City had asked him about me.
''I wasn’t sure if it was serious or not. I said I was keen to come but I am always insecure in those situations as I don’t want to get my hopes up. But all of a sudden I was here and really happy. I have been playing in the team but that hasn’t surprised me.'
''I thought I could fit here and I am happy I have,’ adds Akanji. ''I don’t worry too much and I play better if I don’t think or stress too much about the game. I know what I can do, I know what I am capable of.''
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