Nigeria youngster Akinsanmiro Ebenezer names Mikel Obi and Jay-Jay Okocha as his idols

Nigeria international Akinsanmiro Ebenezer has expressed his admiration for football legends John Obi Mikel and Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, citing them as his diols.

The 21-year-old, who currently plies his trade for Serie A side Pisa on loan from Inter Milan stressed he enjoys the former Nigeria football star.

Speaking to the Super Eagles media, Akinsanmiro explained his viewing habits growing up and how his love for playing football shaped his perspective.

“To be honest, I don’t really watch football like that because you know when I grew up, you had to play before you watch games.

“So we are not allowed or have the chance to watch games. So I love to play football and when I was growing up I took it seriously. I like to watch on YouTube, Mikel Obi.

“I like the way he plays from Under 20 to the World Cup. Also, Okocha. To be honest, I only watch these people on YouTube.”

Akinsanmiro’s admiration for these Nigerian greats reflects his dedication to developing his own game. His talent and determination earned him a place in Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.