Manuel Akanji Hints at Early Retirement Due to Grueling Football Schedule

Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji has hinted that he might retire from football at the age of 30 due to the demanding schedule.

The Swiss international voiced his concerns about the growing number of matches each season, particularly with the new format of the UEFA Champions League adding more fixtures.

Manuel Akanji, who played for Manchester City throughout the 2023-24 season and represented Switzerland at Euro 2024, expressed frustration over the relentless schedule. He highlighted the lack of sufficient breaks and the continuous cycle of games and competitions.

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“It’s incredibly tough,” Manuel Akanji told ESPN. “You’re not just thinking about this season, but the next one too. If we win the league or cup, then we might go to the Club World Cup, and the Community Shield is just three weeks later. There’s no time for holidays, and we barely get two weeks off before starting the next season. Plus, the World Cup is coming up next summer. It’s endless.

“You can’t keep adding games and expect everything to be fine. We need to consider the players’ well-being. Eventually, the constant playing leads to fatigue and injuries. We train hard and stay fit, but there has to be a limit. I’m concerned I might retire at 30.”