Super Eagles Midfielder Akinsanmiro Names John Obi Mikel and Jay-Jay Okocha as Football Icons

Super Eagles attacking midfielder Akinsanmiro Ebenezer has revealed the Nigerian football legends he admires the most. The 21-year-old, who currently plays for Serie A side Pisa on loan from Inter Milan, said he enjoys watching John Obi Mikel and Austin Jay-Jay Okocha.

Speaking to the Super Eagles media, Akinsanmiro explained his viewing habits growing up and how his love for playing football shaped his perspective.

“To be honest, I don’t really watch football like that because you know when I grew up, you had to play before you watch games.

“So we are not allowed or have the chance to watch games. So I love to play football and when I was growing up I took it seriously. I like to watch on YouTube, Mikel Obi.

“I like the way he plays from Under 20 to the World Cup. Also, Okocha. To be honest, I only watch these people on YouTube.”

Akinsanmiro’s admiration for these Nigerian greats reflects his dedication to developing his own game. His talent and determination earned him a place in Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations