Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji has said that his eagle tattoo is more than a design, describing it as a permanent reminder of his Nigerian roots.
Akanji, who is currently on loan at Inter Milan, explained the significance of the tattoo during an interview with Inter TV. Though born in Switzerland to a Swiss mother and a Nigerian father, the 30-year-old admitted that the image of the eagle links him deeply to the West African country.
“This is the eagle, from the Nigerian national team, with the football under it. It’s something I carry with me,” Akanji said, pointing to the tattoo on his left arm.
While he represents Switzerland at the international level, Akanji said he continues to feel a strong bond with Nigeria.
“Obviously, I play for the Swiss national team, but I’m still really proud of being Nigerian,” he said. “I could only make one decision, but they are still with me all the way.”
