Inter Milan defender Manuel Akanji expressed enthusiasm about reconnecting with former Manchester City teammate John Stones as the reigning Serie A champions prepare for their season opener against Monza. Akanji has been actively assisting Stones in settling into his new surroundings, taking him to training sessions and showing him around the city.
The Nerazzurri have made significant squad investments ahead of the new campaign, recruiting three England internationals during the summer transfer window. Alongside Stones, the club brought in Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones and Tottenham fullback Djed Spence, strengthening multiple areas of the pitch.
Akanji acknowledged the depth improvements, noting that having additional quality options provides crucial insurance against injuries throughout the season. However, he emphasized that possessing talented players alone is insufficient without demonstrating their quality on the field.
Describing Stones as one of his closest friends, Akanji stated his hope that beginning the campaign at home alongside him would set a positive tone for the season. Inter are favored to retain their domestic title after claiming both the Serie A championship and Coppa Italia last season, though Akanji stressed the squad must prove itself through performances rather than reputation alone.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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