Inter Milan loanee Ebenezer Akinsanmiro has spoken warmly about his experience with the Super Eagles following his maiden call-up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who is currently on loan at Pisa, has been one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents over the past year, earning the attention of Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle.
While Akinsanmiro is yet to cement a regular starting role, he remains patient as he learns from established midfielders such as Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Frank Onyeka.
Speaking in an interview, Akinsanmiro revealed that settling into the national team environment has been seamless, thanks to the strong bond within the squad.
“I’m close to everybody. We are like a family, so I’m close to everyone,” he said.
The youngster also shared a memorable moment involving Napoli striker and former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen.
Akinsanmiro recalled meeting Osimhen during his time at Inter Milan, when they faced Napoli in Italy.
“He came to me and spoke some words of encouragement to me,” Akinsanmiro revealed, describing the interaction as motivating and uplifting.
On the pitch, Akinsanmiro featured for Nigeria in a pre-AFCON friendly against Egypt, where he was deployed in an attacking midfield role.
The decision drew mixed reactions from fans, with some believing he would be more effective in a deeper central midfield position.
However, the midfielder has now clarified his preference.
“I play midfield anywhere, but I like to play attacking midfield,” he explained.
With the Super Eagles already qualified for the round of 16 at AFCON 2025, coach Chelle is expected to rotate his squad in the remaining group games.
This could present Akinsanmiro and other fringe players with valuable opportunities to gain more minutes and stake a stronger claim for starting roles as the tournament progresses.
