Akanji Shines as Chivu’s Defensive Backbone

Akanji Shines as Chivu’s Defensive BackboneThe Bangla Cricket Live audience has recently drawn parallels between resilience in cricket and football, and Inter Milan’s latest performances under Cristian Chivu seem to echo that same fighting spirit. The Italian giants have found new energy this season, thanks to a tactical overhaul that blends creativity with discipline. In the opening 30 minutes against Verona, Inter displayed near-perfect control—Bastoni’s overlapping runs and the use of half-space movement on both flanks created constant pressure, leaving their opponents with little room to breathe.

But momentum shifted unexpectedly. Verona turned the tide, exposing several defensive vulnerabilities that Chivu will need to fix. Bastoni, in particular, was repeatedly targeted on defense, showing an area that still requires adjustment. When the team found itself on the back foot, questions arose about whether Bisseck could handle the deep-lying central defender role. Amid these uncertainties, Manuel Akanji emerged as Chivu’s key problem-solver. His versatility became Inter’s safety net—helping Bisseck maintain defensive structure, covering crucial spaces after picking up a booking, and even stepping forward as a wide center-back to create offensive width when needed. Much like the comeback spirit seen in a Bangla Cricket Live showdown, Akanji’s adaptability turned pressure into opportunity.

Fans and analysts alike have praised Akanji as one of Inter’s smartest acquisitions in recent memory. Considering his reported price tag of around £13 million, supporters see him as an absolute bargain—what many would call “a steal” in today’s transfer market. In interviews, Akanji expressed his trust in Chivu’s tactics and gratitude for the chance to prove himself again at the elite level. After being deemed surplus to requirements by Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, his revival at Inter and reappearance on the Champions League stage feels like poetic justice.

That said, Akanji’s current deal is only a loan, and ownership matters remain unresolved. The defender has made it clear that he hopes to stay permanently at the San Siro, though he’s waiting for Inter to make an official commitment. Judging by financial realities, it’s almost impossible for the Nerazzurri to find a more complete defender for the same modest fee. Major Italian outlets such as La Gazzetta dello Sport and Corriere dello Sport have both hinted that a permanent move is very likely.

Despite turning 30, Akanji remains one of the younger members of Inter’s defensive lineup, especially compared to their aging backline. In Serie A—a league where the pace of play is measured and physical duels are tactical rather than reckless—his age is hardly a concern. The club’s leadership would be wise not to let this gem slip away. For Inter, keeping Akanji would mean maintaining a balance of youth and experience, a lesson as clear as those seen in a tightly fought Bangla Cricket Live contest: consistency wins championships, not just talent.