In a significant development for the Nigerian national team, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has received a major boost with the impending return of talented midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro from injury. This comes just as Chelle finalizes his preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Injury Timeline and Expected Return
The 21-year-old Nigerian international is scheduled to make his comeback to competitive football for his Italian club, Pisa, on December 8. Akinsanmiro has been sidelined for approximately four weeks after sustaining a shoulder injury during a Serie B match.
The unfortunate incident occurred on November 7 at the Arena Garibaldi stadium during Pisa's league encounter against Cremonese. Akinsanmiro, who was in the starting lineup, was forced to leave the pitch in the 68th minute following a heavy knock. His absence resulted in him missing two crucial league matches for his club.
A Welcome Boost for Super Eagles' AFCON Plans
This recovery is perfectly timed for national team interests. Coach Eric Chelle is actively assessing his midfield options ahead of the continental tournament, and Akinsanmiro's availability adds valuable depth and quality to the squad. The midfielder's return to fitness precedes a critical deadline: Chelle must submit his final 28-man squad for AFCON 2025 by December 10, selected from a provisional list of 55 players.
Despite his recent spell on the treatment table, Akinsanmiro's attributes make him a compelling option. Described as a physically strong and technically gifted player, he has made a positive impression since joining Pisa on loan from Italian giants Inter Milan. His form earlier in the campaign had reportedly put him in contention for a place in the squad for the recent CAF World Cup qualifying playoffs before his injury intervened.
Tournament Context and Squad News
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco on December 21. Nigeria, the three-time African champions, have been drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. Akinsanmiro's return provides a positive note amid other squad concerns.
In contrasting news, the Super Eagles will be without defender Benjamin Fredrick for the tournament. The promising centre-back, on loan from Brentford, suffered a serious training injury upon returning from World Cup playoff duty. He is expected to be out for around 12 weeks, prompting Coach Chelle to seek a replacement in the final squad list.
Fredrick's absence is a blow, as he was seen as a potential long-term successor to captain William Troost-Ekong, having previously impressed during World Cup qualifiers. Meanwhile, in other positive news for Nigerian fans, forward Ademola Lookman has regained his scoring touch for Italian club Atalanta, netting in consecutive matches including a UEFA Champions League fixture.
As the deadline for squad submission approaches, the return of Ebenezer Akinsanmiro offers Coach Eric Chelle enhanced flexibility and a welcome selection headache in midfield, strengthening Nigeria's prospects as they aim for a fourth AFCON title.
