Ebenezer Akinsanmiro Set To Feature In Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON Squad – Pisa Coach Confirms

Pisa SC manager Alberto Gilardino has expressed confidence that Ebenezer Akinsanmiro will be included in Nigeria’s final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, a 21-year-old midfielder, currently on loan at Pisa from Inter Milan, was named in Nigeria coach Eric Chelle’s provisional 54-man squad for the tournament.

Concerns over his fitness had emerged in recent weeks. Still, Akinsanmiro eased those fears on Monday by playing the entire second half in Pisa’s home defeat to Parma, signalling a full return to match readiness.

Gilardino confirmed that Akinsanmiro will join the Super Eagles’ camp after Pisa’s Serie A clash with Lecce on December 12. Speaking to FC Inter1908, the Italian coach said, “Akinsanmiro? After Lecce, he’ll miss several matches.”

Since his loan move, which includes an option to buy, Akinsanmiro has featured in twelve matches across all competitions for Pisa, showing flashes of the talent that earned him a spot in Nigeria’s provisional squad.

Despite the positive news, the midfielder faces fierce competition in Nigeria’s midfield. Established stars such as Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Alhassan Yusuf are all ahead in the pecking order.

Additionally, Getafe loanee Christantus Uche, known for his versatility in both midfield and attack, is also vying for a place in the final roster.

The Super Eagles are set to open their AFCON camp on Monday, December 15, marking what will be Akinsanmiro’s first call-up to the national team for the continental tournament.

Source: Naijanews