William Troost-Ekong, captain of the Super Eagles, has announced his retirement from international football. This decision ends a remarkable ten-year career with the national team. His announcement came less than three weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria’s football community has since paid glowing tributes to the defender.

A Decade of Dedication

Troost-Ekong debuted in 2015 under the late Stephen Keshi. He quickly became one of the squad’s most respected figures. Reflecting on his journey, he called playing for Nigeria the “greatest privilege” of his life. His career progressed from a late call-up to the captain’s armband.

“Today, I am announcing my retirement from international football,” he stated. “A late call from the late Stephen Keshi in 2015 changed my life. A month later, the Big Boss gave me my debut. His belief in me ignited my desire to follow his footsteps.” He added, “Every time I wore that iconic shirt, I remembered that moment. To captain the Super Eagles was truly beyond my wildest dreams.”

“I achieved 83 senior caps and played in five major tournaments. I also won three medals and broke several records,” he revealed. “I truly lived my dreams.” He thanked supporters, coaches, and teammates. He called his captaincy an honour he will always cherish.

Tributes Pour In for a Super Eagles Leader

His retirement sparked widespread praise across African football. Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers called him a “Legend.” Ola Aina of Nottingham Forest wrote, “My champion!!!” Ademola Lookman hailed him simply as a “Leader.”

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also recognized his impact. They wrote on 𝕏: “Legends remain, in their time and long after it. William Troost-Ekong. It’s been a pleasure, captain.”

His retirement news surfaced shortly after his inclusion in Eric Chelle’s provisional 54-man squad. This list was for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. The tournament is set to begin on December 21.

Career Highlights and AFCON Heroics

Troost-Ekong played for the Netherlands at youth level. However, he committed his senior career to Nigeria. He earned his first cap in an AFCON qualifier against Chad. He later featured in the 2018 World Cup in Russia. In 2021, he became one of the team’s leaders. He also helped Nigeria secure a bronze medal at the 2019 AFCON.

The 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast marked his finest tournament. He scored three goals, including a crucial header in the final. Nigeria finished second to the host nation. His stellar performances earned him the Player of the Tournament award. This is a rare honour for a centre-back.

Moving Forward Without a Modern Icon

Troost-Ekong concludes his Super Eagles career with 83 appearances and eight goals. Nigeria is in Group C for AFCON 2025. They will face Uganda, Tunisia, and Tanzania. The team now moves forward without one of its most influential modern figures.