Inter Milan have been handed a significant injury scare as defender Manuel Akanji has withdrawn from the Switzerland national team squad ahead of their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixture against Scotland. The 31-year-old centre-back was granted permission to depart the national camp early, returning to Italy immediately to undergo a comprehensive medical assessment by the Nerazzurri’s staff. Although Akanji played the full 90 minutes in Switzerland’s 0-0 draw with Slovenia on Friday, reports from Sky Sport Italia indicate the decision is precautionary, driven by concerns over muscular fatigue rather than a severe structural injury.
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The early return is a calculated risk for Inter head coach Cristian Chivu, who has relied heavily on the former Manchester City man during the opening months of the 2026-27 campaign. By pulling Akanji out of the international break several days earlier than anticipated, the club aims to maximize his recovery time at their training base in Milan. This strategic move ensures the defender receives targeted treatment and rest, positioning him to be available for the high-intensity Serie A clash against Atalanta. Chivu’s decision underscores the club’s priority to protect their defensive core during a congested schedule.
While the absence from the Scotland match is a minor setback for Switzerland, the primary focus for Inter is ensuring Akanji is fully fit for the upcoming domestic fixture. The “muscular fatigue” diagnosis suggests a manageable issue, but the precautionary approach highlights the club’s wariness regarding player workload during the international window. As Inter prepares for the Atalanta encounter, medical staff will closely monitor Akanji’s condition over the next 48 hours to determine his availability, with the goal of having the experienced defender back in the starting lineup to bolster the backline.
Source: Yahoo Sports
