Manuel Akanji
SwitzerlandDefenderInterManuel Akanji goes into World Cup 2026 as a defender who can steady the back line for Switzerland. He brings 80 caps and 4 goals into the tournament. Inter provides his recent club rhythm before the tournament. The focus is body shape, recovery runs, aerial work and decisions under pressure.
Group B
Jun 13, 2026vs Qatar - 12:00 PM PDT
Quick Facts
Manuel Akanji and Switzerland World Cup 2026 Squad
Switzerland selected Manuel Akanji for World Cup 2026 with a clear football task. As a defender, he can protect the channel, win first contact and keep clearances controlled.
Akanji is part of a group of 8 defenders, so the opponent and match state can affect his minutes.
International Record
Manuel Akanji brings 80 caps and 4 goals into the tournament.
Akanji's senior international timeline dates back to 2017, which gives the record more weight than a simple squad listing.
International Record
- International record: Manuel Akanji enters the tournament with 80 caps and 4 goals for Switzerland.
- World Cup 2026 role: Switzerland list Manuel Akanji as a defender, with minutes linked to form, workload and game state.
- Group opponents: Switzerland face Qatar, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Canada in the group stage.
Playing Style and Strengths
Akanji's World Cup value starts with body shape, recovery runs, aerial work and decisions under pressure.
Akanji's first pass out of defence can help the team breathe after a long spell without the ball.
- Duel timing
- Compact spacing
- Set-piece defending
- First pass out
- Cover runs
- Box protection
World Cup 2026 Fixtures
Switzerland start against Qatar on 13 June 2026 in San Francisco Bay Area. For Akanji, the first match is a direct test of match rhythm and role clarity.
Bosnia and Herzegovina follow on 18 June 2026 in Los Angeles. For Akanji, the second fixture can quickly change the selection picture if the opener leaves Switzerland chasing points or protecting workload.
| Kickoff | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 13, 202612:00 PM PDT | Qatar | San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area |
| Jun 18, 202612:00 PM PDT |  Bosnia and Herzegovina | Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles |
| Jun 24, 202612:00 PM PDT |  Canada | BC Place Vancouver, Vancouver |
Dates and kickoff times above are shown in the venue timezone.
Recent Form
Manuel Akanji played 33 Serie A matches for Inter in 2025/26, scoring 2 goals and providing 0 assists.
Akanji's latest checked appearance came on May 31, 2026, with 60 minutes in Switzerland versus Jordan.
Career Stats
Manuel Akanji brings 80 caps and 4 goals into the tournament.
For Switzerland, the numbers guide the selection picture, but they do not replace match readiness. The opener still has to fit Akanji's form and the opponent's plan.
| Field | Verified value |
|---|---|
| Team | Switzerland |
| Position | Defender |
| Club | Inter |
| Caps | 80 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Born | 19 July 1995 |
World Cup 2026 Role
Manuel Akanji enters World Cup 2026 with Switzerland as a defender. The senior record stands at 80 caps and 4 goals. Match role, form and group-stage needs will shape his minutes.
Switzerland will judge him through training rhythm before the tournament. The useful signs are duel timing, spacing and the first pass forward.
Switzerland start against Qatar on Jun 13, 2026 in San Francisco Bay Area. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Canada come next in the group. The match order can affect workload and selection.
FAQ
Is Manuel Akanji in the Switzerland World Cup 2026 squad?
Yes. Manuel Akanji is in Switzerland's World Cup 2026 squad in the checked player data.
What position does Manuel Akanji play?
He is listed as a defender for Switzerland.
How many international caps and goals does Manuel Akanji have?
He enters World Cup 2026 with 80 caps and 4 goals for Switzerland.
Who are Switzerland's World Cup 2026 group opponents?
Switzerland face Qatar, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Canada in the group stage.
When is Manuel Akanji's first World Cup 2026 match?
Switzerland start against Qatar on 13 June 2026 in San Francisco Bay Area.
What is Manuel Akanji's latest club form?
He plays for Inter in the checked player facts.
More Switzerland World Cup 2026 Player Profiles
Explore more Switzerland squad profiles, including teammates who can share minutes, supply service or affect the same match plan.
Group B Table
| # | Team | P | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Switzerland | 3 | 4 | 7 |
| 2 | Canada | 3 | 5 | 4 |
| 3 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 3 | -1 | 4 |
| 4 | Qatar | 3 | -8 | 1 |