Newly invited Super Eagles midfielder, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, has shared an inspiring story about his path to professional football. Growing up, he once stepped away from the game to learn barbing — and even became a professional barber.
Akinsanmiro, now on loan at Pisa from Inter Milan, is one of the fresh faces in Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Before moving abroad, he played for NPFL champions Remo Stars.
“My dad and brothers were footballers, and they inspired me a lot. At some point, I took a break from football to learn barbing. I’m grateful to my family for their support,” he told Super Eagles media. 
On his national team call-up, Akinsanmiro admitted it was emotional:
“I wasn’t expecting it. When I got the invitation, I shed tears because it was a dream come true. I’ve been pushing since U-17 and U-20, hoping one day the chance would come.”