Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has stepped away from international football in a move that has stunned many supporters, coming less than a month before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco.
William Troost-Ekong, 32, announced his retirement on earlier today, posting a short message to confirm his decision. He wrote that he was “honoured” and “forever a Super Eagle”, drawing a curtain on a decade with the national team. During that period he made 83 appearances, scored eight goals and won three AFCON medals.
Troost-Ekong wrote: “Honoured. Grateful. Forever a Super Eagle
“Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life. The journey may end here, but my support never will.
“Here’s to the next chapter.”
Troost-Ekong broke into the senior squad in 2015 and quickly became one of the Eagles’ most reliable figures. His standout moment arrived at the 2023 AFCON, where he was named Player of the Tournament after leading Nigeria to a second-place finish.
The centre-back’s leadership at the heart of defence helped shape a new generation of Super Eagles, something many fans believe will be difficult to replace.
His retirement now leaves Nigeria facing a defensive reshuffle at a delicate moment. The squad has already been hit by the injury to young defender Benjamin Frederick, who will miss both the AFCON and upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
For head coach Eric Chelle, the absence of two important players in the same department raises fresh questions about depth, experience and stability ahead of a major competition.
