Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has announced his retirement from international football with immediate effect, ending a ten-year run with the Nigerian national team.
In a video posted on his official X account, the 32-year-old centre-back described his time with the Super Eagles as “the greatest honour” of his life.
His decision comes just weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and days after Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Troost-Ekong made his debut in 2015 under the late Stephen Keshi and went on to earn 83 caps for Nigeria.
He played in five major tournaments, won three medals, and captained the team to the AFCON 2023 final where he scored and was named Player of the Tournament. The PAOK Salonika defender also retires as the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history, with five goals.
He said he would continue contributing to Nigeria through charity and grassroots initiatives, thanking fans for their support throughout his career. “It’s been the greatest honour of my life,” he wrote, closing the video message.
READ MORE: 2025 AFCON: Osimhen, Iwobi, Lookman Top List as Eric Chelle Unveils Super Eagles Squad
Tributes have poured in from teammates, coaches and supporters who praised his leadership during one of the national team’s most challenging eras.
