William Troost-Ekong has brought an emotional close to a decade-long international career, announcing his retirement from the Super Eagles just weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The 32-year-old defender confirmed his decision in a heartfelt social media video, ending speculation that followed Nigeria’s narrow 4-3 penalty loss to DR Congo in the World Cup playoffs.
Making his Nigeria debut in 2015 under the late Stephen Keshi, Troost-Ekong described wearing the national jersey as the “greatest privilege” of his life. “Every time I stepped onto the pitch, I remembered that first call from Big Boss Keshi. Captaining the Super Eagles was beyond my wildest dreams,” he reflected.
Over his international career, Troost-Ekong earned 83 caps, scored eight goals, and competed in five major tournaments, collecting three medals along the way. He recounted the highs of AFCON 2023, where he led Nigeria to the final, scored in the decisive match, and was named Player of the Tournament.
Expressing gratitude, he said, “The time has come to pass on the responsibility and the captaincy. I leave with peace of mind, proud to have represented my country and inspired the next generation of Eagles stars.”
Tributes have poured in from teammates and football authorities. Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers hailed him as a “Legend,” Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina celebrated him as “My champion,” and Ademola Lookman called him a “Leader.” The Confederation of African Football added, “Legends remain, in their time and long after it. William Troost-Ekong. It’s been a pleasure, captain.”
Although he played for the Netherlands at youth levels, Troost-Ekong chose to represent Nigeria at senior level. He featured in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and captained the team to AFCON bronze in 2019, with his standout performance coming in 2023 when he scored three goals and earned silver behind Ivory Coast.
Troost-Ekong’s decision to step aside arrives shortly after he was named in Eric Chelle’s 54-player provisional squad for the upcoming AFCON, leaving a legacy of leadership, resilience, and inspiration for the Super Eagles.
