Nigerian youngster Ebenezer Akinsanmiro's Serie A debut for Inter Milan last weekend sent waves of excitement across the globe, especially in Nigeria, with many praising the youngster's impressive journey through the ranks.
The 19-year-old midfielder entered the game as a 76th-minute substitute for Davide Frattesi, contributing to Inter's comfortable 4-0 victory over Lecce.
This debut marked a significant moment, adding Akinsanmiro to the esteemed list of Nigerians who have donned the iconic black and blue of Inter Milan, joining the likes of Taribo West, Obafemi Martins, Joel Obi, and Obinna Nsofor.
Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi, who also navigated the Primavera system in Italy similar to Akinsanmiro, expressed his admiration for the young talent.
Onazi praises Inter Milan teenager Akinsanmiro
Onazi, who spent four years at Lazio and played 76 games for them, believes the Inter Milan teenager possesses the potential for greatness if he continues his dedication that has seen him come this far in a short time. “I have been following him,” Onazi told afrik-foot.com.
“His progress has been massive at Inter Milan, just like mine when I went to Lazio in 2011 alongside my friend Emmanuel Sani.
“The most important thing is when you come to this country (Italy) you buckle down and work very hard. It is also important to learn the language as soon as possible.
“You also have to take every opportunity that comes your way.”
The 31-year-old, who was part of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations title-winning squad in 2013, holds high hopes for Akinsanmiro and his future.
“For him to come to Inter, one of the best teams not just in Italy but in the world, and to get those minutes is really a big deal,” Onazi continued
“I like him because he is a very humble kid who is working really hard.
“As you can see, he has been doing the right thing at the right time and is working at Inter with my former coach at Lazio. As far as he keeps working hard, he is destined for the top.”
Akinsanmiro's debut signifies a promising future for the young midfielder.
With continued hard work and guidance, he has the potential to follow in the footsteps of Nigerian greats and etch his name further into Inter Milan's storied history.
