Akinsanmiro Makes Nigeria’s Final AFCON Squad in Breakthrough Season

Inter Milan-owned midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro has been named in Nigeria’s final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Pisa coach Alberto Gilardino has confirmed. The 21-year-old earns his first senior call-up after an impressive start to life in Serie A with newly promoted Pisa.

Akinsanmiro has made 11 league appearances, provided one assist and won two man-of-the-match awards, with his energy and passing standing out. He recently returned from a shoulder injury and impressed off the bench against Parma.

Super Eagles boss Eric Chelle reportedly sees him as a dynamic box-to-box option. Gilardino praised the midfielder’s growth and said, “After Lecce … he’ll miss several matches,” confirming his AFCON departure.

Nigeria opens camp on December 15 and Akinsanmiro could debut in a friendly against Egypt before their December 23 opener against Tanzania.