National Teams
Troost-Ekong explains untimely retirement as Nigeria captain quits before AFCON 2025
Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has announced his retirement from international football, ending a decade-long career with the Super Eagles just weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Troost-Ekong, 32, confirmed his decision after Nigeria’s penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo last month, a result that ended the team’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The defender informed his teammates in the dressing room that the match would be his final appearance for the national team.
The centre-back retires with 83 caps and eight goals, having represented Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. He was named Player of the Tournament at AFCON 2023.
Troost-Ekong said he had been considering retirement for months due to persistent fitness concerns, including hamstring surgery last year.
“It was a decision I had sleepless nights over,” he said to Standard Sport. “You always want things to end perfectly, but I felt this was the right moment. The team has great leaders and the next generation is ready.”
Born in the Netherlands, Troost-Ekong was eligible for both Nigeria and the Netherlands but committed to the Super Eagles early in his career. He said inspiring other foreign-born players to represent Nigeria has been one of the most meaningful parts of his international journey.
“There has never been a lack of talent,” he said. “Players from London, Berlin, Amsterdam — they are coming home to represent Nigeria. That is something that needs to be built on.”
Troost-Ekong has been vocal about improving standards within the Nigeria Football Federation, especially after a recent players’ protest over unpaid bonuses and allowances. He said he hopes to support reforms in the future.
“There is no shortage of talent, but things in the organisation can and need to be better,” he said. “I’d love to help improve that moving forward.”
Troost-Ekong will watch the upcoming AFCON as a fan, admitting it will feel unfamiliar after a decade in the national setup.
“I’ll be proud seeing the players out there,” he said. “I really hope they win it. Nigerian football is close to my heart and will always be part of me.”
