Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi have expressed deep appreciation for William Troost-Ekong following the defender’s announcement that he is stepping away from the Super Eagles after a decade of distinguished service to Nigerian football.
Troost-Ekong, 32, confirmed his retirement from international football on Thursday, bringing to a close a remarkable journey that saw him earn 83 caps and score eight goals for Nigeria. The Al-Kholood defender made his decision public just days before the Super Eagles are scheduled to begin their campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The centre-back, who has served as captain of the national team, shared his decision through a heartfelt statement on social media. “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,” Troost-Ekong wrote.
## A Career Built on Consistency and Leadership
Troost-Ekong’s international career began on June 13, 2015, when he made his debut for Nigeria in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Chad. Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, the defender initially represented the Netherlands at youth level before committing his senior international future to Nigeria.
Over the past decade, Troost-Ekong has established himself as one of the most reliable defenders in African football. His record of five goals at the Africa Cup of Nations stands as the highest ever scored by a defender in the history of the continental tournament, highlighting his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch.
The defender’s final appearance for Nigeria came on November 13, when he entered the match against Gabon as a late substitute. His retirement marks the end of an era for the Super Eagles, who will now navigate the upcoming AFCON tournament without one of their most experienced players.
Victor Osimhen, the Galatasaray striker who has played alongside Troost-Ekong since his early days with the national team, was among the first to pay tribute. The forward posted an emotional message on social media acknowledging the defender’s influence on the squad.
“It’s been an honour sharing the pitch with you, skippo. Your guidance, humility, and professionalism pushed all of us to be better,” Osimhen wrote. “Thank you for everything you’ve given to the team and Nigeria. Wishing you greatness ahead. You’ve earned it. Legend forever.”
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi also spoke about Troost-Ekong’s retirement in an interview with SportyTV’s Kelechi, describing the news as an emotional moment within the national team camp. Iwobi emphasized the defender’s role beyond his on-field contributions, particularly his leadership qualities and ability to maintain team unity.
“Obviously, it is a sad one for us because he is a big part of our team. But at the end of the day, I wish him well, he is a brother, he has helped Nigeria and me,” Iwobi said. “Of course, towards the end of his Nigerian career, he wasn’t playing as much as probably he would like, but he was still a big part of our team, his voice, the way he was leading us and the way he made sure the togetherness in the team was very high and very strong.”
Iwobi further highlighted Troost-Ekong’s impact in the dressing room, noting that while the defender’s physical presence on the pitch may have diminished in recent times, his leadership remained invaluable. “So he will be very missed, he was a big leader for us, and I am sure we have other leaders that can follow in his footsteps, but we all wish him well,” the midfielder added.
Troost-Ekong’s retirement comes at a significant moment for Nigerian football. The Super Eagles are preparing for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament that will test the depth and resilience of the squad. The defender’s absence will be felt not only in terms of experience but also in leadership, as he has been a steady presence in the team through various transitions and challenges.
Throughout his international career, Troost-Ekong has represented Nigeria at multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and has been part of World Cup qualification campaigns. His consistency and professionalism have made him a respected figure both within the squad and among Nigerian football supporters.
The defender currently plays for Al-Kholood in the Saudi Pro League, where he continues his club career. His decision to retire from international football allows him to focus on his club commitments while leaving behind a legacy of dedication to the Nigerian national team.
