Akanji says Stones will adapt at Inter, Switzerland missed World Cup’

Manuel Akanji, now in his second season at Inter’s San Siro, says new signing John Stones will quickly adapt to the Nerazzurri and insists Switzerland could have won the World Cup, adding ‘We had been better than Argentina…’ after the Swiss side’s quarter‑final exit.

Stones' integration at Inter

Akanji explained that Stones arrives already physically prepared from the Premier League, but will need time to adjust tactically to Serie A. He recalled their partnership in a back four at Manchester City and said, “He can do everything and won’t have any problems either.”

He also noted that the English defender will benefit from the help of teammates and staff, adding that both he and Stones prefer to build from the back while keeping marking as a priority.

Switzerland’s World Cup disappointment

Reflecting on the tournament, Akanji said, ‘We had been better than Argentina…’ and argued that without Embolo’s red card Switzerland might have progressed further. He expressed pride in his national side despite the quarter‑final loss.

He recalled missing a penalty in the Round of 16 against Colombia and confirmed he will not take penalties for Switzerland again.

After returning from a three‑week holiday, Akanji described his training routine: “Initially, I did a lot of running and gym work, and since my teammates returned from the tour, we’ve been working together on the pitch.” He is eager to face Monza in his 2026‑27 Serie A debut next Saturday.

On a lighter note, Akanji revealed he changed his hairstyle during pre‑season, saying, “I feel good, and most people say I look a bit younger, so that’s not bad considering I’m 31.”

He also recounted a chance meeting with Stones’ wife on a beach in Ibiza, joking that “pure coincidence” led to a quick friendship and that he has even taken Stones to a restaurant to help him settle.

A recent photo shows Akanji warming up before the Serie A match against US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, underscoring his continued involvement with the Nerazzurri.