Inter Milan defender, Manuel Akanji, has shared heartfelt reflections about his Nigerian heritage, despite representing Switzerland on the international stage.
Born in Wiesendangen, Switzerland, to a Swiss mother and a Nigerian father, the 30-year-old chose to play for the Swiss national team, rising through the youth levels before cementing his place in the senior squad.
Strong Nigerian Ties
Akanji revealed he still feels a deep connection to his Nigerian roots, proudly showcasing a tattoo that symbolizes this bond.
“This is the eagle, from the Nigerian national team, with the football under it. It’s something I carry with me,” he told Inter TV, pointing to the ink on his left arm.
“Obviously, I play for the Swiss national team, but I’m still really proud of being Nigerian. I could only make one decision, but they are still with me all the way.”
Trips Back Home
Though his football career makes it difficult to visit, Akanji recalled fond memories of past trips to Nigeria.
“It’s been a long time since I’ve been back to Nigeria,” he admitted. “It’s hard for me to go back because I don’t have a break in the winter, and summer is the rainy season, so you never really know what you’re going to get, but when I was young, I went there three or four times.”
