Inter and Switzerland defender Manuel Akanji has shared his feelings about the current World Cup’s hydration breaks, admitting he’s “not a big fan.” While he acknowledges the commercial reasons behind them, he believes they disrupt the flow of the game. However, Akanji also lauded the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, calling it the “best stadium I’ve ever played in.”
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport during his international duty with the Swiss national team at the 2026 World Cup, the former Manchester City player reflected on his recent experiences. Switzerland had secured one win and one draw in their opening two group stage matches.
Akanji, who just completed his first season with Inter, winning the domestic double (Scudetto and Coppa Italia), spoke highly of his time at the Milan club. “Inter is a great school, a university that helps you grow in various aspects,” he stated. “I am very grateful to those who wanted me here, and I am happy to stay and win more with this coach.”
He also commented on his adaptation to playing in a back three under coach Cristian Chivu, a formation he hadn’t frequently encountered at club level before joining Inter. “Now I think differently in various game situations. If we were to switch to a back five in the future, I would know exactly what to do.”
Akanji praised Chivu’s coaching style, noting his understanding of players due to his own top-level playing career. “Chivu understands players very well because he himself was a top-level footballer and experienced the same situations we are going through now,” Akanji explained. “Furthermore, he has won many trophies with Inter and knows exactly what the club needs. He is also a very communicative and empathetic coach: he often talks to us players and, importantly, he is willing to listen to us. This is precisely what creates an excellent relationship with all of us.”
Switzerland’s recent 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup took place at the SoFi Stadium. Akanji was effusive in his praise for the venue: “Well, it’s truly fantastic. I told my friends that if we’re talking about the overall experience, this is the best stadium I’ve ever played in,” he remarked. “I’ve seen many, but SoFi is incredible. When you enter and look at everything around you, you are impressed and understand why it cost so much.” While an NFL enthusiast himself, supporting the Atlanta Falcons and having visited the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, he maintained that for pure football, San Siro remains unparalleled.
Addressing the World Cup’s hydration breaks, which have drawn criticism for potentially serving commercial interests more than player welfare, Akanji expressed his reservations. “No, I’m not a big fan,” he admitted. “I understand the organisational and commercial reasons; I understand that advertising and other activities can be inserted during those breaks. But as a footballer, I think they take away from the match’s rhythm. If a team is struggling, a break can help them by allowing tactical adjustments, and conversely, it can interrupt a favourable moment.”
