Super Eagles captain and defender, William Troost-Ekong, has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable decade-long career in Nigeria’s national colours.
The Netherlands-born Nigerian defender announced in a video on X on Thursday, reflecting on a journey that transformed him from a foreign-born hopeful into one of Nigeria’s most respected football leaders.
“Today, I’m announcing my retirement from international football,” Troost-Ekong declared.
He traced the defining moment of his international career to a life-changing phone call in 2015 from the late former Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi.
“In 2015, a phone call from the late Stephen Keshi changed my life. A month later, the big boss gave me my debut. His belief in me ignited a desire to follow in his footsteps.”
Troost-Ekong said every appearance for Nigeria carried personal meaning for him, culminating in the honour of captaining the national team.
“Every single time I’ve put on the iconic shirt to walk out onto the pitch, I’ve thought back to that exact moment. Going on to captain the Super Eagles was beyond my wildest dreams. Nigeria took me in and trusted me to lead and represent a nation of 230 plus million.”
From his beginnings abroad to global tournaments, the defender described his rise as a privilege he will forever cherish.
“From a boy born and raised in the Netherlands, to the Olympic wall, and eventually Skipo, is a privilege I will always hold close to my heart.”
Troost-Ekong retires with 83 senior international caps, appearances in five major tournaments, and three international medals. His achievements include a bronze medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics, participation in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, and three Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments, where he won two bronze medals and one silver.
“To have achieved 83 senior caps, played in five major tournaments, won three medals, and broken a few records, I’ve really lived my dream.”
One of the defining moments of his career came at the 2023 AFCON, where he captained Nigeria to the final, scored in the final match, and was named Player of the Tournament.
“Being able to lead Nigeria through the 2023 Afcon, scoring in the final, and being named player of the tournament, was something so special. To this day, I still wish for a different ending.”
He also retired as the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history, a record he credited to teamwork.
“Becoming the highest scoring defender in Afghan history is an honour I share with every teammate who was part of those moments.”
Troost-Ekong said he leaves the national team with a clear conscience, confident that he gave his all on and off the pitch.
“I’m at peace knowing that throughout all these milestones, I gave everything I had. Not just for myself, but to try and inspire the next generation.”
Reflecting on leadership transition within the squad, he said the time has come to hand over responsibility to the new generation.
“Watching them grow into leaders, time has come to pass on the responsibility, to pass on the opportunity, and to pass on the capacity.”
Despite stepping away from international football, Troost-Ekong stressed that his commitment to Nigeria remains firm.
“This isn’t a final goodbye. My work within Nigerian communities continues, just as my love and passion for the team will never fade.”
He concluded his emotional message by thanking coaches, teammates, and fans for their unwavering support.
“To every coach, member of staff, and most importantly, my teammates and our brothers, past and present, who have been part of my international journey, thank you. To the Nigerian fans, the heartbeat of Nigerian football, your support has carried me through every high and every challenge.”
Troost-Ekong ended with a powerful tribute to the green-and-white jersey he wore for nearly a decade: “The last decade has been filled with commitment, pride, and unforgettable memories. Wearing the Super Eagle shirt has been more than playing football. It has been a duty, a privilege, and an honour.”
