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Nigeria’s men’s national team has bid farewell to one of its most committed leaders as captain William Troost-Ekong has formally stepped away from international football. The centre-back, who anchored the Super Eagles’ defence for a decade, confirmed his retirement on Thursday through a heartfelt message shared with fans.
In an emotional Instagram post, the 31-year-old expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to wear the Nigerian colours. Describing his time with the national team as the defining experience of his football career, the defender noted that although his days on the pitch for the country have ended, his passion for the Super Eagles remains unchanged.
“Honoured. Grateful. Forever a Super Eagle. Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life,” he wrote, adding, “The journey may end here, but my support never will. Here’s to the next chapter.”
His announcement came shortly after renowned football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano disclosed the development on his X account. Romano highlighted Troost-Ekong’s accomplishments, stating: “William Troost-Ekong has decided to retire from international football and won’t play for Nigeria again. After 83 caps, 3 medals and playing in 5 major tournaments, Troost-Ekong says goodbye to the Super Eagles.”
Troost-Ekong, who currently plays for Al-Kholood in the Saudi Pro League, has had a unique football journey. Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, he initially represented the Dutch youth teams before choosing to switch allegiance to Nigeria. His first appearance for the Super Eagles came on June 13, 2015, in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad—marking the beginning of a long and influential international career.
One of the most remarkable highlights of Troost-Ekong’s time with Nigeria is his historic scoring record at the Africa Cup of Nations. His five goals at the tournament stand as the highest ever scored by a defender in AFCON history, a milestone that now becomes a permanent part of African football records with his retirement.
In total, he earned 83 caps and scored eight goals for Nigeria, with his final outing coming in the November clash against Gabon, where he featured late in the match. Despite his leadership qualities, his playing time had gradually reduced under current head coach Eric Chelle, who preferred younger defenders such as Benjamin Fredrick. Troost-Ekong did not feature during Nigeria’s World Cup play-off defeat to DR Congo, a loss that ultimately ended the country’s qualification hopes.
Although his name was included in the provisional 54-man roster for December’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the squad is expected to be cut to 28 players when camping begins in Egypt on December 10. His decision to retire means Nigeria will now proceed into the tournament without one of its most experienced campaigners.
As the Super Eagles turn the page, Troost-Ekong leaves behind a legacy of leadership, resilience, and loyalty—qualities that endeared him to fans and teammates throughout his ten-year international career. His absence will be deeply felt, but his contributions will remain an enduring part of Nigeria’s football history.
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