William Troost-Ekong has retired from international football, ending a decade with the Super Eagles just two weeks before the 2025 AFCON.
The 32-year-old confirmed his exit in an emotional video, calling his time with Nigeria “the greatest privilege” of his life.
His announcement ended speculation after the team’s failed attempt to reach the 2026 World Cup.
He reflected on his 2015 debut under Stephen Keshi, saying: “In 2015, a late call from the late Stephen Keshi changed my life… His belief in me ignited the desire to follow his footsteps.”
Troost-Ekong added that captaining Nigeria was “beyond my wildest dreams” and that every match reminded him of that first call-up.
“To have achieved 83 senior caps, played in five major tournaments, three medals, and broken a few records, I really lived my dreams,” he said. He also relived AFCON 2023, where he scored in the final and was named Player of the Tournament.
Stepping aside, he said: “The time has come to pass on the responsibility, to pass on the opportunity, to pass on the captaincy. I am so proud to be part of a group that showed it is possible to come home, to play and represent our beloved nation.”
The tributes followed swiftly. Cyriel Dessers called him a “Legend”, Ola Aina wrote “My champion!!!”, and Ademola Lookman hailed him as a “Leader”. CAF added: “Legends remain, in their time and long after it. William Troost-Ekong. It’s been a pleasure, captain.”
His decision came less than 48 hours after he was named in Eric Chelle’s 54-man provisional AFCON squad.
Troost-Ekong, who featured for the Netherlands at youth level before choosing Nigeria, played at the 2018 World Cup, won bronze at AFCON 2019 and delivered his finest performances at AFCON 2023.
He departs with 83 caps and eight goals, leaving Nigeria to approach AFCON 2025 without one of their most trusted leaders.
