Table of Contents
Recently invited Super Eagles midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro has shared that he temporarily left football to pursue barbering during his youth, according to DAILY POST.
Akinsanmiro is among the new additions to Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The dynamic midfielder was previously with the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions, Remo Stars, before relocating abroad a few years ago.
“Well, my father was a significant influence on me; he was once a footballer, and my two brothers were footballers as well. I developed a strong interest in the game while watching them play,” he stated in an interview with the Super Eagles media.
“There was a period when I stepped away from football to learn barbering. I’m also a professional barber. I owe a lot to my father and brothers for their encouragement.”
Akinsanmiro, who is currently on loan at Pisa from Inter Milan, also shared his thoughts on receiving the Super Eagles invitation.
“To be honest, I wasn't expecting it. The first time I was contacted was during the World Cup qualifiers, but I was injured and unable to participate,” he added.
“So, when this invitation arrived, I reached out to someone close to me. I found myself in tears because it felt like a dream come true for me.
“I have been striving to represent the national team, from U-17 to U-20 levels. At times, I thought I might not be good enough. I kept telling myself to keep pushing and giving my best, hoping that one day the invitation would come.”
Why did Ebenezer Akinsanmiro take a break from football? He took a break from football to learn barbering, which he pursued professionally for a time.
He took a break from football to learn barbering, which he pursued professionally for a time.
What inspired Akinsanmiro to play football? His father, who was a former footballer, along with his two brothers who also played the sport, were major inspirations for him.
His father, who was a former footballer, along with his two brothers who also played the sport, were major inspirations for him.
How did Akinsanmiro feel about his Super Eagles invitation? He was overwhelmed with emotion and shed tears, as it represented the fulfillment of a long-held dream.
He was overwhelmed with emotion and shed tears, as it represented the fulfillment of a long-held dream.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
