‘Wow!’, ‘defend like Kompany’ – Many Man City fans very impressed with Manuel Akanji’s debut performance

Manuel Akanji made his debut for Manchester City today in the Champions League, and helped the team to a convincing 4-0 victory over Sevilla.

The 27-year-old defender completed his switch to City just six days ago from Borussia Dortmund, our second arrival of the summer from the German club after securing the services of talisman Erling Haaland.

Injuries to Kyle Walker (unspecified) and John Stones (muscular) meant Pep Guardiola was limited in his defensive options for their Champions League opener against Sevilla on Tuesday night. In turn, it prompted Pep Guardiola to throw Akanji straight into the action despite lacking time on the training ground

Akanji had 86 touches of the ball in an assured display at the back, whilst also playing two key passes in the 90 minutes.

He was calm with the ball, and saved City with two or three great interceptions. He should fit seamlessly into this side on this showing, and looks a bargain already at £15m.

The centre-back was thrilled after the perfect debut. He said: “The guys supported me well, I’m happy with that. I’m happy with the clean sheet and the three points today.”

However, it’s only natural that Akanji was under the microscope, so here’s a look at what was being said about the deadline day man’s debut.

He was a beast today

— TAKE THE L AND BOUNCE (@Joshua_MCI) September 6, 2022

very impressed

— Álvarez¹⁹ (@19Alvarez_) September 6, 2022

“Wow! 86 touches. Massive.”
Credit: @Dzivo6

“If this is a sign of what’s to come the future is blinding for him at this entire side🏆💙.”
Credit: @CrustyFlacko

“What a performance!.”
Credit: @BelgianKing17

“Hé move the ball into space like laporte but defend like kompany. Keep up the good work ..”
Credit: @MlSanny

“Worth every penny 💯💪.”
Credit: @ferns40339084

“No more Txiki disrespect please.”
Credit: @Sa8_City

“Now, let’s not jump to conclusions after Akanji’s first game. Give him time. If he has a bad game, don’t trash talk about it. Let’s not forget Mangala had a 10/10 performance against Chelsea on his debut and look how that turned out.”
Credit: @HaaIandEra