Nigeria’s football community has paid heartfelt tribute to William Troost-Ekong. The Super Eagles captain announced his retirement from international football on Thursday. This marks the end of a remarkable ten-year journey. His exit comes less than three weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
A Decade of Service: From Debut to Captaincy
Troost-Ekong debuted in 2015 under the late Stephen Keshi. He quickly became one of the squad’s most respected figures. Reflecting on his career, he called playing for Nigeria the “greatest privilege” of his life. His journey began with a late call-up, culminating in the captain’s armband.
He shared his emotional announcement. “Today, I’m announcing my retirement from international football,” he stated. “In 2015, a late call from the late Stephen Keshi changed my life. A month later, the Big Boss gave me my debut. His belief in me ignited the desire to follow his footsteps.”
He added, “Every single time I put on the iconic shirt, I thought about that exact moment. Going on to captain the Super Eagles was beyond my wildest dreams.”
He extended gratitude to his supporters, coaches, and teammates. Captaining Nigeria, he noted, is an honour he will always cherish.
Troost-Ekong reflected on his accomplishments. “I achieved 83 senior caps,” he stated. “I played in five major tournaments and won three medals. I also broke a few records. I truly lived my dreams.”
Tributes Pour In for a Respected Leader
His announcement sparked widespread praise across African football. Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers called him a “Legend.” Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina hailed him as “My champion!!!” Ademola Lookman also described him as a “Leader.”
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also acknowledged his impact. They wrote on X: “Legends remain, in their time and long after it. William Troost-Ekong. It’s been a pleasure, captain.”
Career Highlights and AFCON Glory
This retirement news came just hours after his name appeared on a provisional list. Eric Chelle’s 54-man squad was for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. The tournament begins on December 21.
Troost-Ekong initially represented the Netherlands at youth level. However, he committed his senior career to Nigeria. He earned his first senior cap in an AFCON qualifier against Chad. He later played at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. In 2021, he became one of the team’s leaders. He also helped Nigeria secure bronze at the 2019 AFCON.
His standout tournament was in Ivory Coast in 2023. He scored three goals during the competition. This included a powerful header in the final. Nigeria finished second, behind the host nation. His exceptional performances earned him the Player of the Tournament award. This is a rare honour for a centre-back.
Troost-Ekong departs the Super Eagles with 83 appearances. He also scored eight goals for the national team. Nigeria is drawn in Group C for AFCON 2025. They will face Uganda, Tunisia, and Tanzania. The team will now enter AFCON 2025 without one of its most influential modern figures.
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