Manuel Akanji Biography is a popular football topic among fans interested in Swiss and European football. Manuel Obafemi Akanji is a Swiss professional footballer who plays primarily as a centre-back and represents the Switzerland national football team.
Known for his strength, pace, passing ability, tactical intelligence, and versatility, Akanji has established himself as an experienced defender at the highest level of European football. His career has included successful spells in Switzerland, Germany, and England, where he has competed in major domestic and European competitions.
Manuel Akanji Biography and Quick Facts
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Manuel Obafemi Akanji |
| Profession | Professional Footballer |
| Date of Birth | 19 July 1995 |
| Age | 31 Years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Neftenbach, Switzerland |
| Nationality | Swiss |
| Height | Approx. 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in) |
| Position | Centre-Back |
| National Team | Switzerland |
| Preferred Foot | Right |
| Net Worth | Estimated US$20–30 Million |
Manuel Akanji Biography and Early Life
Manuel Akanji was born on 19 July 1995 in Neftenbach, Switzerland. He developed an interest in football at a young age and began his journey through the Swiss football system.
He spent his early years with FC Wiesendangen before joining FC Winterthur, where he progressed through the youth ranks and eventually began his professional career.
His impressive performances earned him a move to FC Basel in 2015. Akanji developed significantly during his time at Basel and gained experience in European competitions.
In January 2018, he joined German Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund. His performances in Germany further strengthened his reputation before he moved to English football with Manchester City in 2022.
Youth Career
- FC Wiesendangen
- FC Winterthur
Age and Height
Born on 19 July 1995, Akanji is 31 years old in 2026.
He stands approximately 1.88 metres (6 feet 2 inches) tall. His physical strength, speed, and aerial ability make him well suited to playing against powerful and fast attackers.
Current Club
Akanji joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in September 2022 and became an important defensive option for the club.
His ability to operate in different defensive positions made him particularly valuable in tactical systems requiring defenders to move between central and wider areas.
Club Career
- FC Winterthur
- FC Basel
- Borussia Dortmund
- Manchester City
Position
His primary position is:
- Centre-Back
He can also play as:
- Right-Back
- Left-Back
- Defensive Midfielder
Playing Strengths
- Tackling
- Positioning
- Pace
- Strength
- Passing
- Ball Control
- Aerial Ability
- Tactical Intelligence
His versatility is one of his biggest strengths, allowing him to perform several defensive roles.
Stats
Akanji has accumulated hundreds of professional appearances across Switzerland, Germany, England, and international football.
Career Stats (Approx.)
- Professional Club Appearances: 400+
- Career Goals: 15+
- Switzerland Appearances: 70+
- Switzerland Goals: 3+
His statistics continue to change as he remains active at club and international level.
Major Honours
- UEFA Champions League Winner
- Premier League Champion
- FA Cup Winner
- FIFA Club World Cup Winner
- UEFA Super Cup Winner
- Swiss Super League Champion
- Swiss Cup Winner
- DFB-Pokal Winner
FIFA Career
Manuel Akanji has been an important member of the Switzerland national football team for several years.
After representing Switzerland at youth level, he made his senior international debut in 2017. He has since represented his country at major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship.
International Career
- Switzerland U20
- Switzerland U21
- Switzerland Senior Team
His defensive experience and versatility have made him an important member of Switzerland’s international squad.
Injury
Akanji has experienced several injuries during his professional career. One of his significant early setbacks was a knee injury during his time in Switzerland.
He has also dealt with occasional muscle and fitness-related problems during his career in Germany and England. Despite these setbacks, he has consistently returned to top-level football and maintained his reputation as a reliable defender.
Wife
Manuel Akanji is married to Melanie Windler. The couple married in 2019 and have children together.
Akanji generally keeps his family and personal life relatively private, with most public attention focused on his football career.
Salary
Akanji’s earnings increased significantly after establishing himself at elite European clubs.
His estimated salary has been reported at approximately:
- Weekly Salary: Around £180,000
- Annual Salary: Around £9 Million
Exact figures can vary depending on bonuses, contract terms, and performance-related incentives.
Games
Akanji has accumulated extensive experience across domestic and international competitions.
His professional career includes appearances for:
- FC Winterthur
- FC Basel
- Borussia Dortmund
- Manchester City
- Switzerland National Team
He has competed in the Swiss Super League, Bundesliga, Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, FIFA World Cup, and UEFA European Championship.
Nationality
Manuel Akanji is Swiss. He was born in Neftenbach, Switzerland, and represents the Switzerland national football team.
His father is Nigerian, while his mother is Swiss, giving him Nigerian and Swiss family heritage.
Jersey Number
Akanji has worn different jersey numbers throughout his club and international career.
His squad number can vary depending on his current club registration and Switzerland national team selection.
FC 26
In EA SPORTS FC 26, Akanji is recognised as a strong and versatile central defender.
Strongest Attributes
- Pace
- Strength
- Standing Tackle
- Defensive Awareness
- Interceptions
- Short Passing
- Ball Control
- Aerial Ability
His combination of speed and defensive ability makes him useful against fast attacking players.
Net Worth
Manuel Akanji’s estimated net worth is around US$20 million to US$30 million, although publicly reported figures can vary.
His main sources of income include:
- Football salary
- Professional contracts
- Performance bonuses
- Sponsorship agreements
- Brand endorsements
His successful career in the Bundesliga, Premier League, and UEFA Champions League has significantly increased his earnings and international profile.
Wikipedia
Manuel Akanji has an official Wikipedia page covering his early life, club career, international appearances, career statistics, personal life, and honours.
This biography is written in an original style and is not copied from Wikipedia.
Final Words
Manuel Akanji Biography highlights the journey of one of Switzerland’s most experienced modern defenders. From beginning his professional career with FC Winterthur to representing FC Basel, Borussia Dortmund, and Manchester City, Akanji has competed successfully at the highest levels of European football.
His pace, defensive intelligence, passing ability, and versatility have also made him an important player for the Switzerland national football team. With major domestic and European trophies to his name, Akanji has established himself as one of the most successful Swiss defenders of his generation.