Man City transfers: Manuel Akanji gives four reasons he chose to join from Dortmund

Manchester City have announced the signing of Manuel Akanji from Borussia Dortmund.

The defender has signed a five-year deal at the Etihad and has become the club’s fifth summer signing, after Erling Haaland, Kalvin Phillips, Stefan Ortega Moreno and Sergio Gomez

He also boosts Pep Guardiola’s defensive numbers, with Aymeric Laporte and Nathan Ake currently injured.

Speaking to City’s club media after signing, Akanji explained some of his reasons for joining the Blues, which include playing an ‘exciting brand of football’ under Pep Guardiola and the opportunity to move to the Premier League.

“I am delighted to be here and can’t wait to get started,” he said.

“City have been one of the best teams in Europe over the last few seasons. They are brilliantto watch, play an exciting brand of football and compete for trophies year in, year out, so coming here feels like the perfect next step in my career.

“Pep Guardiola is an exceptional manager and this is an exceptional squad of players, so this is an exciting opportunity for me.

“I am really looking forward to testing myself in the Premier League and I will do everything I can to help this club be successful.”

Akanji will wear the No.25 shirt for City, previously held by Fernandinho, and could make his debut this weekend when the Premier League champions travel to Aston Villa.

The Swiss international is also set for a quick reunion with Dortmund, as City play the Bundesliga side later this month in the Champions League group stage.