Manuel Akanji sparks discussions after displaying Super Eagles emblem tattoo

Manchester City star Manuel Akanji has sparked social media discussions after proudly displaying his new tattoo featuring the emblem of the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Born in Switzerland to Nigerian and Swiss parents, the 28-year-old defender primarily operates as a center back but also possesses versatility to play as a full back.

Despite being eligible to represent Nigeria internationally due to his father’s nationality, Akanji opted to play for Switzerland, the country of his birth.

However, his recent tattoo, depicting the Super Eagles logo, serves as a visible acknowledgment of his Nigerian heritage, even though he has committed to the Swiss national team.

Akanji began his international career with the Switzerland U-20 team, earning two caps. He later made his senior debut for the Swiss squad in a 2–0 victory over the Faroe Islands in a 2018 World Cup qualifying match.

Selected for Switzerland’s squad in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Akanji featured in all four games as they advanced to the round of 16.

Despite his allegiance to Switzerland, Akanji’s decision to get a Super Eagles tattoo shows he is still following the team.

Akanji must have been proud of the Super Eagles at the recently concluded 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria finished as runners-up.