Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has received a significant boost ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with the news that midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro is poised to return from injury.
Midfielder Set for Timely Comeback
The 21-year-old Nigerian international, who plays for Italian Serie B side Pisa, is expected to be back in action on Sunday, December 8. This marks his return after a four-week absence due to a shoulder injury.
Akinsanmiro sustained the knock during Pisa's league fixture against Cremonese at the Arena Garibaldi on November 7. He started the match but was forced to leave the pitch in the 68th minute. His recovery timeline means he will be fully available for national team selection as preparations for AFCON intensify.
A Welcome Option for Chelle's Midfield
Coach Eric Chelle is currently in the process of finalizing his squad for the continental tournament, which kicks off in Morocco on December 21. Nigeria, the three-time African champions, are drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda.
Chelle is required to submit his final 28-man squad by December 10, chosen from a provisional list of 55 players. Akinsanmiro's return provides a valuable option in midfield, especially given his physical presence and technical ability, traits he has showcased since joining Pisa on loan from Inter Milan.
His availability comes as a relief, as he was reportedly under consideration for the recent CAF World Cup playoff matches before his injury sidelined him.
Injury Blow for Defender Benjamin Fredrick
While the news on Akinsanmiro is positive, the Super Eagles camp has also dealt with a significant setback. Promising defender Benjamin Fredrick has been ruled out of AFCON 2025 due to a serious injury.
The Brentford loanee suffered the injury in training after returning from World Cup qualifying duty. Reports indicate he faces a 12-week recovery period, forcing Coach Chelle to seek a replacement in his squad. Fredrick's absence is a concern for Nigerian supporters, as the young star was seen as a potential long-term successor to captain William Troost-Ekong.
In other positive news for the Eagles, forward Ademola Lookman has regained his scoring form for Italian club Atalanta, netting in their recent Serie A victory over Fiorentina. This adds to the encouraging signs for Nigeria as they aim to conquer Africa once again in Morocco.
