Five Things To Know About Italy-Based Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, the Surprise Inclusion in Super Eagles’ AFCON Squad

Five Things To Know About Italy-Based Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, the Surprise Inclusion in Super Eagles’ AFCON Squad

By Niyi Busari 

Many Nigerian football fans were taken by surprise on Thursday night when Italy-based midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro appeared on the Super Eagles’ final 28-man list for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced the squad with several notable omissions, including Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, Alhassan Yusuf of New England Revolution, Crystal Palace’s Chrisantus Uche, and Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Tolu Arokodare.

Akinsanmiro, currently on loan at Pisa SC from Inter Milan, is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s rising prospects. 

It took Ebenezer Akinsanmiro just two years after leaving Remo Stars to break into the Super Eagles squad. Growth 

He joined Inter Milan in 2023 and is now on loan at Pisa, where he has 11 matches, 80% pass accuracy, 11 chances created, 16 dribbles, 19 tackles, 55 duels won, and 61 recoveries.

Here are five key things to know about the 19-year-old midfielder:

1. He Was Scouted by Real Madrid

When Akinsanmiro moved to Italy in January 2023 to join Inter Milan, he had already caught the attention of European giants Real Madrid, who viewed him as a major talent for the future.

2. He Has Two Major Trophies to His Name

Despite limited senior minutes, Akinsanmiro has already collected two significant honors. He was part of Inter’s squad that won the 2023 Coppa Italia and lifted the Serie A title the following season.

3. He Was One of Primavera’s Most Valuable Players

During the 2023/2024 campaign, Akinsanmiro consistently featured for Inter’s Primavera side, emerging as the team’s most valuable player and ranking among the top five in the entire Italian youth league.

4. He Has Become a Fan Favourite at Pisa

Since joining Pisa SC, Akinsanmiro has quickly endeared himself to supporters and is widely regarded as the club’s standout performer so far this season.

5. Inter Milan Still See Him in Their Future

Inter loaned the Nigerian midfielder to Pisa with an option to buy, but included a buy-back clause a clear indication that the Italian champions still believe strongly in his long-term potential.