Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has paid a glowing tribute to team captain William Troost-Ekong, following the defender's shocking announcement of his retirement from international football. The decision comes less than three weeks before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, sending shockwaves through the Nigerian football community.
A Decade of Service Ends Abruptly
After a decade of service with the Nigerian senior national team, William Troost-Ekong shared a heartfelt note on social media to announce his departure from the international scene. The defender, who will continue his professional career at club level, made his decision public barely two weeks after leading the team in a protest over unpaid wages and bonuses before their World Cup play-off matches in Morocco.
The protest saw the team boycott a training session 48 hours before their opening game against Gabon, demanding outstanding payments dating back to 2019. Nigeria ultimately failed to secure a World Cup ticket, losing to DR Congo in a penalty shootout, after which Troost-Ekong faced significant criticism from fans and officials alike.
Osimhen's Heartfelt Message to 'Skippo'
Reacting to the news, Napoli and Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen expressed his admiration and gratitude for the outgoing captain. In a social media post, Osimhen wrote a special message highlighting Troost-Ekong's leadership and character.
"It's been an honour sharing the pitch with you, skippo. Your guidance, humility, and professionalism pushed all of us to be better," Osimhen stated. He continued, "Thank you for everything you've given to the team and Nigeria. Wishing you greatness ahead. You've earned it. Legend forever."
This tribute underscores the high regard in which Troost-Ekong is held by his teammates, despite the recent controversies surrounding the national team.
Troost-Ekong's Legacy and Fan Reactions
In his retirement announcement, Troost-Ekong expressed profound gratitude for his time with the Super Eagles. He wrote, "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."
The defender, who initially represented Netherlands youth teams before switching allegiance to Nigeria, earned 83 caps for the Super Eagles, scoring 8 goals. One of his most memorable moments was scoring a header in the AFCON 2023 final against Ivory Coast.
The news has sparked an outpouring of reactions on social media. One fan noted the uniqueness of his retirement, stating it was "not about age… it’s about everything you endured." Another fan commented in Pidgin English, questioning if the decision was linked to "the toxicity surrounding the NFF." The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also reportedly sent a message to the departing captain following his announcement.
Troost-Ekong's sudden exit leaves a significant leadership vacuum in the Super Eagles defence as the team prepares for AFCON 2025, with key defender Benjamin Frederick also reportedly unavailable.
