Nigeria’s Super Eagles will welcome a new face for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON ), with Ebenezer Akinsanmiro confirmed in the final squad by Pisa SC manager Alberto Gilardino.
Akinsanmiro, 21, will make his senior international debut after an impressive breakthrough season in Serie A. The midfield has featured in 11 league matches for newly promoted Pisa, registering one assist and earning two man-of-the-match awards.
His work rate, passing range, and tactical discipline have made him a standout in a team adjusting to top-flight football.
Akinsanmiro recently returned from a shoulder injury that sidelined him in matches against Sassuolo and Inter Milan. He impressed after coming on at halftime against Parma, almost setting up an equaliser before a teammate’s finishing error denied him.
Ebenezer Akinsanmiro in action for Pisa. Photo Credit: Imago
“Akinsanmiro? After Lecce (on December 12), he’ll miss several matches,” Gilardino said, confirming the midfielder’s impending departure for international duty.
Head coach Eric Chelle views Akinsanmiro as a dynamic addition to Nigeria’s midfield, providing box-to-box energy, precise passing, and versatility to complement established players like Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka.
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Ebenezer Akinsanmiro. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Akinsanmiro’s rise has been rapid from Remo Stars to making his Inter Milan debut, and now starring for Pisa on loan. Inter Milan retain long-term control through a €6m option-to-buy and a buy-back clause, allowing them to monitor his development closely.
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Nigeria opens preparations for AFCON 2025 on December 15, with Akinsanmiro expected to arrive early. He could earn his first cap in a pre-tournament friendly against Egypt, ahead of the Super Eagles’ Group D opener against Tanzania on December 23. Tunisia and Uganda complete the group.
