Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has publicly dismissed reports suggesting his sudden retirement from international football was triggered by a disagreement with the Nigeria Football Federation or head coach Eric Chelle.
Troost-Ekong Sets the Record Straight
The 32-year-old defender, who announced his surprise retirement on Thursday, December 4, 2025, just 17 days before the start of the Africa Cup of Nations, took to social media to address what he called false narratives. This came after a publication linked his decision to step away to the bonus dispute between the Super Eagles and the NFF during the World Cup playoffs, alleging he felt unsupported by Coach Chelle.
In a direct response on his X account, Troost-Ekong stated, "This just isn't true, my friend. I retired on my own terms and for my own reasons. None of the above-mentioned." He emphasized his continued backing for the national team, adding, "My full support is to Coach Chelle and the team for the upcoming AFCON."
Retirement Was a Personal Decision
Troost-Ekong further clarified that no one within the football hierarchy pressured him to leave. Contrary to rumours of being forced out, he revealed that efforts were made to persuade him to stay. "Not true! My retirement was my own choice/decision, and on my own terms," he wrote. "No one ever asked/tried to force me out. If anything, the opposite was true when I shared my decision."
His retirement announcement came despite being named in Coach Eric Chelle's 54-man preliminary squad for AFCON 2025 and was widely expected to be a key figure in the final team traveling to Morocco. The Al-Kholood defender marked his exit with an emotional video shared online, confirming the end of his international career which spanned 83 caps.
Legacy and Official Reactions
William Troost-Ekong retires as a significant figure in Nigerian football history. He is the Super Eagles' ninth-most capped player and remarkably scored eight goals from his defensive position. His career highlights include representing Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
The Nigeria Football Federation has already honoured the departing star. In a statement released on Friday, December 5, the NFF described Troost-Ekong as a "committed and humble leader who served Nigeria with outstanding patriotism."
Despite the controversy surrounding the timing of his exit, Troost-Ekong's final message was one of unity. He has called on all Nigerian fans to rally behind the Super Eagles as they prepare to compete at AFCON 2025, demonstrating his enduring commitment to the team's success even from the sidelines.
