In a move that has sent shockwaves through the African football community, William Troost-Ekong, captain of Nigeria's Super Eagles, has announced his retirement from international football. The timing of his decision, coming just 19 days before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, has left fans and pundits stunned.
A Sudden Farewell Before AFCON 2025
The Harlem-born defender made the announcement public via a heartfelt statement on his X page, marking the end of a distinguished international career that spanned a decade. Troost-Ekong reflected on the honour of representing Nigeria, recalling his debut under former coach Stephen Keshi.
"Every single time I put on that iconic shirt, I thought back to the moment Stephen Keshi gave me my debut. Nigeria took me in and trusted me to represent a nation of 230+ million. I have lived my dream," he wrote. The centre-back amassed 83 caps, featured in five major tournaments, and had the privilege of captaining the national side, achievements he described as "beyond my wildest dreams."
CAF's Tribute to a Nigerian Icon
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) was quick to honour the departing legend. On its official X page, CAF posted a message celebrating Troost-Ekong's contributions: "Legends remain, in their time and long after it. William Troost-Ekong. It’s been a pleasure, captain."
The football governing body also published a formal statement on its website, applauding his distinguished decade of service and marking his retirement as the end of an era for Nigerian football. This public acknowledgment from CAF underscores the defender's significant impact on the continental stage, notably his role in leading Nigeria to a second-place finish at AFCON 2023, where he was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player.
Timing, Legacy, and the Next Generation
The Al-Kholood defender confirmed in an interview with the London Evening Standard that he informed his teammates of his decision following Nigeria's penalty shootout loss to DR Congo, which ended the country's hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This loss meant that Troost-Ekong, part of the 2018 World Cup squad, would not feature on that global stage again.
While the timing so close to AFCON 2025 has raised questions among supporters, many fans have expressed respect for his decision, acknowledging that after ten years of dedicated service, he deserves to bow out on his own terms. In his statement, Troost-Ekong acknowledged the highs and lows of his journey and passed the torch: "It has been fun to play alongside my Nigerian teammates, building something great together. Now it’s the turn of the next generation to continue and write their own story."
His retirement marks a pivotal moment for the Super Eagles, who must now prepare for a major tournament without their inspirational captain and defensive stalwart.
