Manuel Akanji: The Ideal Defensive Solution Chelsea Needs

Chelsea’s Centre-Back Challenge: Why Manuel Akanji Could Be the Solution

As the January 2021 transfer window gained momentum, Chelsea found themselves facing a pivotal moment in squad planning. Despite possessing a roster filled with world-class defenders, a looming contract crisis threatened the team’s defensive core. This article explores why Borussia Dortmund’s Manuel Akanji stands out as the ideal candidate to reinforce Chelsea’s back line for years to come.

Chelsea’s Defensive Line: Depth Meets Uncertainty

Under Thomas Tuchel, Chelsea’s success was underpinned by defensive solidity. The preferred 3-4-2-1 formation relied on a trio of experienced centre-backs, protected by a diligent midfield duo and anchored by a reliable goalkeeper. Names like César Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva, and Antonio Rudiger consistently delivered high-caliber performances, while Andreas Christensen and Trevoh Chalobah added depth and fresh energy.

But despite this apparent strength, contract deadlines cast a shadow over Stamford Bridge. Four of Chelsea’s primary centre-back options faced expiring deals in the summer, putting the club at risk of losing vital players in their prime. While Azpilicueta and Silva were likely to accept shorter extensions, negotiations with Rudiger and Christensen stagnated. Although promising, Malang Sarr and Chalobah had yet to demonstrate leadership on par with their senior counterparts.

In this context, Chelsea required not just a future prospect, but a defender who could step in and perform at a high level immediately.

Manuel Akanji: Profiling the Defensive Standout

Akanji’s tenure at Borussia Dortmund has been a story of growth and adaptation. Early struggles included costly errors and injury setbacks, exacerbated by competition with Mats Hummels—another ball-playing centre-back with a similar skill set. However, a tactical shift to a back-three under coach Lucien Favre marked a turning point. As a left-sided centre-back, Akanji leaned more into his strengths, benefiting from increased support and evolving into a more confident on-ball defender.

With further development under Edin Terzic and Marco Rose, Akanji transformed into a highly influential figure in Dortmund’s defensive and possession phases. When absent, the team’s defensive stability and build-up play suffered noticeably, underlining his importance.

The 26-year-old Swiss international offers:

– Height and physicality (1.86m/6’1”) with a 59% aerial-win rate.
– Outstanding reading of the game.
– Elite ball distribution—82% long pass completion, 96% for medium-range, and 93% for short-range passes.
– 100% dribble success rate, confidently carrying the ball out from the back.
– Versatility to play both centrally and on the left in a back-three.

Elite Defensive Performance: Advanced Statistics

Akanji stands out among top European defenders for his ability to win the ball back and execute tackles successfully. His defensive metrics include a possession win rate of over 51% on applied pressures—ranking highest across Europe’s five major leagues. Additionally, his tackle success rate of 81.3% is among the very best.

Such attributes present immense value to teams emphasizing control and aggressive ball recovery, echoing Tuchel’s Chelsea blueprint.

How Akanji Measures Up to Chelsea’s Current Defenders

A detailed statistical comparison between Akanji and Chelsea’s key centre-backs (Rudiger, Silva, Christensen) reveals just how well the Swiss defender aligns with the club’s expectations.

Akanji’s numbers signal that he could match or even surpass some of Chelsea’s established defenders, particularly given his youth compared to veterans like Rudiger and Silva.

Possession and Attacking Contribution

As two of Europe’s leading possession-based teams, Chelsea and Dortmund demand defenders who can initiate attacks and maintain circulation from the back.

– Akanji delivers high passing volumes, with more attempted and completed long passes per game than Silva or Christensen.
– He excels in progressive carries, moving the ball upfield efficiently.
– His passing accuracy and ability to find teammates under pressure support a fluid possession game.
– A 100% dribble completion further underscores his composure and technical quality.

While less involved in shot-creating actions—a less crucial trait for centre-backs—his positive influence in earlier phases of play is clear.

Transfer Outlook: Feasibility and Value

Although Chelsea may not be in dire need of a centre-back at this very moment, unresolved contract situations could leave the squad exposed by the end of the season. Akanji is reportedly valued at approximately €30 million—a competitive price for a proven, peak-age defender with room for further growth.

While completing a transfer in January could be challenging, Borussia Dortmund may opt to consider offers in the summer. For Chelsea, this timeline aligns well, allowing the club to prepare for possible departures and maintain a leadership presence in the defensive unit.

Conclusion: Why Chelsea Should Target Manuel Akanji

In a market where top-tier centre-backs command premium fees, Manuel Akanji represents an exceptional blend of ability, experience, and upside. His stellar defensive record, ball-playing prowess, and tactical flexibility make him a seamless fit for Chelsea’s preferred style.

Should Chelsea lose even one of their main defenders to contract expiration, failing to reinforce the squad would risk destabilizing the team’s tactical foundations. By securing Akanji, Chelsea would not merely replace a departing star—they would future-proof their back line and maintain their competitive edge at the highest level of European football.

In summary, as Chelsea considers their transfer options, they should place Manuel Akanji high on their shortlist—the Swiss international could be the key to sustained success at the heart of their defense.