Akinsanmiro Set for AFCON Debut as Pisa Coach Confirms Super Eagles Call-Up

Pisa SC manager Alberto Gilardino has confirmed that Nigerian youngster Ebenezer Akinsanmiro will join the Super Eagles for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Gilardino revealed that the midfielder will report to the national team immediately after Pisa’s Serie A fixture against Lecce on Friday.

“Akinsanmiro? After Lecce (on December 12), he’ll miss several matches,”
Gilardino told FC Inter1908.

The 21-year-old, currently on loan at Pisa from Inter Milan, was included in Nigeria’s 54-man provisional squad released last week — and now his AFCON debut is confirmed.

This marks his first-ever senior invitation to the national team, a testament to his impressive rise in Italian football and standout performances this season.

The Super Eagles are set to open camp on Monday, December 15, as preparations intensify for the continental showdown.

OPINION — A New Midfield Gem for Nigeria?

Akinsanmiro’s call-up feels like more than just another squad addition — it feels like the start of a new chapter.

In a team searching for fresh legs and creative spark in midfield, the former Remo Stars prodigy has shown qualities that excite: quick feet, bravery on the ball, and the maturity to handle Serie A football at just 21. That is no small achievement.

He might not walk straight into the starting XI, but AFCON could be his gateway to becoming a long-term Super Eagles star. Nigeria has a history of discovering breakout talents on big stages — from Okocha to Osimhen — and Akinsanmiro gives off that same “watch me” energy.

If he seizes this moment, he could return to Inter Milan next summer not just as a young loanee… but as an AFCON-tested Nigerian international.

For now, the excitement is real. Nigeria may have just unlocked another diamond.