'Wasn't nice to hear' - Axed Man City star shares brutal Pep Guardiola message

Pep Guardiola delivered a brutal ultimatum to Manuel Akanji during the summer transfer window - depart Manchester City or face being relegated to the stands. Akanji secured a deadline-day switch to Inter Milan after receiving the stark warning from Guardiola about his prospects at the Etihad.

The Switzerland defender had been a crucial figure for City following his arrival from Borussia Dortmund in summer 2022. He contributed to Guardiola's squad, claiming seven trophies across three campaigns, and featured in 40 matches during the previous season.

Nevertheless, it became apparent to him this summer that he had slipped down the centre-back hierarchy behind Ruben Dias, John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, Nathan Ake and Abdukodir Khusanov.

The 30-year-old was reportedly courted by Crystal Palace and Galatasaray before finalising a season-long loan to Inter, featuring a £13million purchase clause that could transform into an obligation next year.

During international duties with Switzerland, Akanji revealed that Guardiola's frank assessment effectively compelled his departure.

"He made it clear to us six central defenders that two would play and two would be on the bench," he said.

"And that it would be difficult for the rest. That wasn't nice to hear, because I always expect to be on the pitch."

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When questioned about Guardiola's altered stance towards him, Akanji responded: "You'll have to ask him.

"It's still difficult to realise right now that I'm suddenly no longer part of the City family, although I still feel like I am somehow.

"Also, because I didn't meet any of my new team-mates in Milan on Monday, as everything happened so quickly and there was no training. My family and I have felt very comfortable in Manchester, and we will definitely miss life there."

Despite the whirlwind move, Akanji is eager to make his mark at Inter under the guidance of manager Cristian Chivu, a former defender himself. "I'm very happy it worked out. I like Inter very much," he expressed.

"The fact is: I'm on loan at Inter, so theoretically a return to Manchester is possible."

However, he acknowledged the reality might be different, adding: "Unfortunately, I haven't been able to say goodbye to City yet, but I definitely want to do that with a team meal, which isn't so easy due to the schedule. But it's important to me that I can say goodbye and start again."

Guardiola has frequently voiced his preference for a smaller squad, finding it challenging to keep everyone content otherwise. Akanji wasn't the only seasoned player to be let go from the squad, with Ilkay Gundogan also making a late transfer window move to Galatasaray. Goalkeeper Ederson also joined Fenerbahce.