Inter Milan-owned midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro has revealed his excitement at joining Serie B side Sampdoria on loan, citing the opportunity to work under legendary playmaker Andrea Pirlo as a key factor in his decision.
The 19-year-old, who made his Inter debut last season and has drawn comparisons with former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi, has joined the Genoa-based club for the upcoming campaign as he looks to gain valuable first-team experience.
“I am very happy and excited to be at Sampdoria,” Akinsanmiro said. “I already love the team, the staff are kind, and the teammates have already shown me friendship: they have all been very welcoming.
“I want to work hard, do my best, and help the group: this is the goal for my season.”
Learning under Pirlo, idolising Mikel Obi
Quizzed about his choice of Sampdoria, Akinsanmiro highlighted the opportunity to learn from Pirlo, an Italy legend and World Cup winner.
“First of all, I chose Sampdoria because they’re a great club and represent a great opportunity for me… I’m also here for the coach, Pirlo, a legend who played the same role as me. He will help me a lot to grow and improve my game.”
Akinsanmiro, who turns 20 in November, has also revealed his admiration for former Chelsea and Nigeria midfielder John Mikel Obi, whom he considers his idol.
“I am a creative player, I like watching many players, people like Obi Mikel, who I adored in his years at Chelsea,” he said.
The Beyond Limits Academy product impressed for Inter's Primavera side last season, scoring six goals and providing two assists in 25 appearances.
A number of clubs, including Lecce, in Serie A, and Palermo and Reggiana, both in Serie B, were keen on acquiring the young midfielder, but Sampdoria ultimately won the race for his signature.
