Super Eagles’ skipper Troost Ekong quits international football

By Tosin Omojola –

A few days after being included in Nigeria’s 55-man provisional list for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Super Eagles’ captain William Troost-Ekong has officially announced his retirement from international football.

Ekong confirmed that after a decade of service, he will not feature in Nigeria’s campaign at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco later this month.

The light-skinned defender made his decision public on his social media pages on Thursday, stating that it had been an honour to represent Nigeria and create unforgettable memories with the national team.

“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 made 83 appearances for the Super Eagles after making his debut in a 2-0 victory over Chad in June 2015 under the late coach Stephen Keshi.

Over the past decade, the Al-Kholood defender proved to be one of Nigeria’s most reliable defenders, representing the country at three AFCON tournaments, the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, and winning bronze at the 2016 Olympics in Brazil with Dream Team VI.

The 32-year-old had been included in Eric Chelle’s 55-man provisional list for the 2025 AFCON, but his decision to retire means he will no longer be available for selection.

Troost-Ekong will now focus fully on his club career with Al-Kholood in Saudi Arabia, where he also serves as captain.