William Troost Ekong opens up on retirement intention ahead of AFCON 2023

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Nigeria defender William Troost Ekong says he was planning to retire from the national team ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.

The Saudi Arabia-based player who captained the Super Eagles to a silver medal at the tournament fell out of favor with former coach Jose Peseiro.

He asserted the reasons for the retirement plan and change of decision before the last AFCON.

“This time last year November, I was preparing my statement for retirement because I fell out with coach Jose Peseiro and we had our differences,” Ekong said.

“Thankfully some of my close circles convinced me not to make the decision based on that emotion.

“I continued and started the year with the AFCON with little expectations as I was happy to be there and said to myself that it might be my last tournament, but it was amazing for me and the team to go all the way to the final.”

It turned out to be the best decision for Ekong as he helped the three-time African champions to the final of the last AFCON.

He also made the tea of the tournament and won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.

The former Watford player has had a rewarding 2024 so far.