Inter Milan-owned midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro recently received a call-up to represent the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations…
Super Eagles midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, who is currently on loan from Inter Milan, has revealed that he looks up to former Chelsea star Mikel Obi as his footballing role model, Soccernet.ng reports.
The young Nigerian, called up to the national team ahead of AFCON 2025, said he has studied Obi’s playing style, particularly during his U-20 World Cup exploits.
The former Stoke City midfielder, who captained the Nigerian national team, had 91 appearances for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, scoring six goals.
Akinsanmiro on Chelsea Legend Mikel Obi
The midfielder admitted that growing up, he did not have the opportunity to watch football live often due to financial restrictions, but he still followed the careers of great Nigerian players online.
His admiration for Mikel Obi, and by extension other national icons like Jay-Jay Okocha, motivated him to continue pursuing football despite challenges.
Speaking about his inspiration, Akinsanmiro said:
“I liked watching Mikel Obi on YouTube, especially during the U-20 World Cup. I loved the way he played. I also studied his highlights and the way he leads on the field.”
Akinsanmiro on Super Eagles call-up
Akinsanmiro, who has previously faced injuries and setbacks, said he remained determined to earn a place in the Super Eagles.
Now, in camp for AFCON 2025, just like Mikel Obi had done, he aims to showcase his talent and justify his national team call-up.
He said: “The first time I was called up was during the World Cup qualifiers, but I got injured and couldn’t go. So when I saw this new invitation, I called someone very close to me and I started crying.
It has been my dream for a very long time. I’ve tried to play for the national team since the U-17 and U-20 levels. There were times I felt maybe I wasn’t good enough.
But I kept pushing and told myself that if I continued to give my best, one day I would get the chance to play for my country.”
The Super Eagles are currently preparing for a warm-up friendly against Egypt in Cairo, a key match ahead of the tournament in Morocco.
Copyright: Imago
Coach Eric Chelle will use the game to assess the form and fitness of the squad, allowing new players like Akinsanmiro to shine.