Manuel Akanji is a name that has become synonymous with exceptional defensive prowess in the world of football. Known for his composure, intelligence, and versatility on the pitch, Akanji has carved out a successful career in European football. This biography delves into the life and career of Manuel Akanji, providing insights into his age, personal life, assets, family background, professional earnings, market value, and net worth as of 2024.

Early Life and Background

Full Name: Manuel Obafemi Akanji
Date of Birth: July 19, 1995
Place of Birth: Wiesendangen, Switzerland
Age (as of 2024): 28 years
Nationality: Swiss
Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
Position: Centre-back

Manuel Akanji was born on July 19, 1995, in Wiesendangen, a small town in Switzerland. His father, Abimbola Akanji, is of Nigerian descent, and his mother, Isabel Akanji, is Swiss. This multicultural background has significantly influenced his life and career. Akanji grew up in a supportive family environment that encouraged his passion for football from an early age.

Early Career

Akanji’s football journey began at the local club in Wiesendangen before he moved to FC Winterthur's youth academy. His talent was evident early on, and he quickly progressed through the ranks. His exceptional performances at Winterthur caught the eye of scouts, leading to a move to FC Basel in 2015.

At Basel, Akanji honed his skills and developed into a robust defender. He played a crucial role in Basel’s defensive lineup, contributing to their domestic successes, including winning the Swiss Super League.

Professional Career

FC Basel (2015-2018)

Manuel Akanji's tenure at FC Basel was marked by impressive performances both domestically and in European competitions. His ability to read the game, combined with his physical attributes, made him a standout player. He helped Basel secure multiple Swiss Super League titles and gain recognition in the UEFA Champions League.

Borussia Dortmund (2018-2022)

In January 2018, Akanji made a significant move to Borussia Dortmund in the German Bundesliga. The transfer fee was reported to be around €18 million. At Dortmund, Akanji further established himself as one of Europe's top defenders. His versatility allowed him to adapt to various defensive roles, and he became a key figure in Dortmund’s defense. His time at Dortmund included memorable performances in the Bundesliga and Champions League, contributing to the team’s successes and enduring popularity.

Manchester City (2022-Present)

In the summer of 2022, Akanji transferred to Manchester City, a move that brought him into the English Premier League, one of the most competitive leagues in the world. The transfer fee was approximately £15 million. At Manchester City, Akanji has continued to excel, becoming an integral part of the team's defensive setup. His performances have been pivotal in Manchester City's domestic and European campaigns.

Personal Life

Melanie Akanji

Wife: Melanie Akanji
Children: 1 (daughter)

Manuel Akanji is married to Melanie Akanji, and the couple has a daughter. Melanie has been a supportive partner, often seen cheering for Akanji during matches and sharing moments of their life together on social media. Their relationship is one of mutual respect and love, and they often share glimpses of their family life, which reflects a balanced and happy personal life.

Lifestyle and Assets

Cars

Manuel Akanji has a keen interest in cars, and his collection includes some high-end models. While he is not one to flaunt his wealth excessively, he appreciates luxury and has been seen driving cars such as a Mercedes-Benz and a Range Rover. His choice of cars reflects his taste for elegance and performance.

Family Background

Father: Abimbola Akanji
Mother: Isabel Akanji
Siblings: Two sisters

Akanji's father, Abimbola, is of Nigerian descent and has been a significant influence in his life. His mother, Isabel, is Swiss, and together they have provided a supportive and nurturing environment for Manuel and his siblings. Akanji has two sisters, Sarah and Michelle, who have also been part of his journey, supporting him through various stages of his career.

Salary, Market Value, and Net Worth

Current Club: Manchester City
Weekly Salary: £100,000
Annual Salary: £5.2 million
Market Value (2024): €35 million
Net Worth (2024): €20 million

As of 2024, Manuel Akanji's market value stands at approximately €35 million, reflecting his importance and performance in the highly competitive environment of European football. His weekly salary at Manchester City is around £100,000, which translates to an annual income of £5.2 million. This substantial earnings, combined with endorsements and investments, have contributed to his impressive net worth of around €20 million.

Achievements and Honors

Throughout his career, Manuel Akanji has achieved numerous honors and accolades. At FC Basel, he won multiple Swiss Super League titles and Swiss Cups. His time at Borussia Dortmund saw him secure the DFB-Pokal (German Cup) and contribute to strong Bundesliga finishes. At Manchester City, Akanji has continued to add to his trophy cabinet, with the team achieving significant successes in the Premier League and other competitions.

International Career

National Team: Switzerland
Caps: 50+ (as of 2024)
Major Tournaments: FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship

Manuel Akanji has been a regular feature in the Swiss national team since making his debut. He has represented Switzerland in several major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship. His defensive skills and leadership qualities have made him a vital player for the national team, contributing to their competitive performances on the international stage.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Manuel Akanji’s future in football appears bright. At 28, he is in the prime of his career and continues to demonstrate his value on the pitch. His performances for Manchester City and the Swiss national team suggest that he will remain a key player for years to come. Potential future transfers, continued success in domestic and international competitions, and his leadership qualities indicate a promising trajectory for Akanji.

Summary

Manuel Akanji's journey from a small town in Switzerland to becoming a top defender in European football is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication. Balancing a successful professional career with a fulfilling personal life, Akanji has emerged as a role model for aspiring footballers. His achievements, both on and off the pitch, highlight the qualities that make him an exceptional individual and athlete.

Detailed Information Table

Attribute	Detail
Full Name	Manuel Obafemi Akanji
Date of Birth	July 19, 1995
Age (as of 2024)	28 years
Place of Birth	Wiesendangen, Switzerland
Nationality	Swiss
Height	1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
Position	Centre-back
Current Club	Manchester City
Weekly Salary	£100,000
Annual Salary	£5.2 million
Market Value (2024)	€35 million
Net Worth (2024)	€20 million
Wife	Melanie Akanji
Children	1 (daughter)
Father	Abimbola Akanji
Mother	Isabel Akanji
Siblings	Two sisters (Sarah and Michelle)
Major Achievements	Swiss Super League titles, DFB-Pokal, Premier League titles
National Team Caps	50+
Major Tournaments	FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship

Manuel Akanji’s life and career exemplify the journey of a talented footballer who has successfully navigated the challenges of professional sports while maintaining a grounded and fulfilling personal life. His story continues to inspire and captivate fans around the world.