Pisa manager Alberto Gilardino has confirmed that Nigerian midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro will join the Super Eagles for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after the team’s next league fixture.

Speaking after Pisa’s loss to Parma, Gilardino revealed that the 21-year-old would be unavailable for several weeks once he features in the match against Lecce. He stated, “Akinsanmiro? After Lecce, he will miss several matches,” indicating the player’s commitment to the upcoming tournament in Morocco, scheduled for December 21 to January 18.

Akinsanmiro returned from injury in the second half of the Parma game and was named Pisa’s standout performer, providing energy, control, and strong midfield presence. He won three of his five duels, completed nearly all his passes, and added intensity despite the team’s defeat.

His performance highlighted the impressive progress he has made in his first Serie A season, where he has quickly become one of the league’s promising young talents.

Nigeria has already included him in their provisional AFCON squad, with Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle monitoring him closely. Chelle is said to value his technical ability and quick transition play, qualities that could prove important against well-structured opponents in Morocco.

Akinsanmiro, currently on loan from Inter, has delivered several notable displays for Pisa this season—such as a Man of the Match performance against Fiorentina and a crucial assist in the draw with AC Milan before his brief injury layoff.

His consistent form has strengthened Pisa’s interest in signing him permanently, even as they battle relegation concerns.

The midfielder joined Inter in 2023 from Beyond Limits and spent last season on loan at Sampdoria before sealing a one-year move to Pisa. He has since grown into one of their key players and is now set to make his debut at a major international tournament after the match against Lecce.