JUST IN: Troost-Ekong retires from international football
William Troost-Ekong Retires From International Football After 10 Historic Years With the Super Eagles
Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable decade-long journey with the Super Eagles. The defender confirmed the emotional decision in a heartfelt statement released on Instagram on Thursday.
Troost-Ekong, who has been one of Nigeria’s most influential leaders on and off the pitch, described playing for the national team as the “greatest privilege” of his career.
“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,” he wrote.
Retirement Confirmed After Reports Surfaced Online
The announcement followed minutes after reputable football journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed the news online, stating that Troost-Ekong had chosen to end his national team journey after achieving significant milestones for Nigeria.
According to Romano, Troost-Ekong departs with 83 caps, three medals, and appearances in five major international tournaments—a legacy that places him among the most decorated Nigerian defenders of the modern era.
A Defender With a Record That May Never Be Broken
Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, Troost-Ekong represented the Netherlands at youth level before committing to Nigeria. He made his senior debut on June 13, 2015, in an AFCON qualifier against Chad.
He leaves with a historic record: five AFCON goals—the highest number ever scored by a defender in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations. This record now stands permanently, as the 30-year-old steps away from international football while still at the peak of his influence.
In total, he scored eight goals in 83 appearances for the Super Eagles. His last appearance came as a late substitute against Gabon on November 13.
Reduced Role Under Eric Chelle
Troost-Ekong’s recent absence from starting lineups contributed to retirement discussions. Under head coach Eric Chelle, he had slipped behind Benjamin Fredrick in the defensive hierarchy and was an unused substitute in the World Cup play-off loss to DR Congo—a defeat that confirmed Nigeria’s failure to qualify.
Though he appeared on Nigeria’s provisional 54-man list for the upcoming AFCON in Morocco, his retirement means he will not be part of the final 28-man squad scheduled to begin camp in Egypt on December 10.
End of an Era for the Super Eagles
Troost-Ekong’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter for Nigerian football. His leadership, consistency, and commitment to the Super Eagles made him a fan favourite and a dependable presence in the team’s backline for 10 years.
The Super Eagles will now look ahead to the future without one of their most experienced figures as preparations intensify for the upcoming AFCON.
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