Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has announced his retirement from international football, drawing the curtain on a decade of leadership, commitment, and unforgettable moments in Nigeria’s national colours.
The 32-year-old defender made the announcement in an emotional Instagram video on Thursday, stating that his journey with the national team “ends here” as he transitions into “the next chapter” of his life and career.
Born in the Netherlands to a Nigerian father and Dutch mother, Ekong described his decision to represent Nigeria as one of the greatest honours of his life.
He said he remains proud to have been part of a generation that demonstrated it was possible for diaspora players to return home and serve their country with distinction.
He noted that the time had come to “pass on the responsibility, to pass on the opportunity, to pass on the captaincy,” signalling a new era for the Super Eagles.
Ekong’s retirement comes less than 48 hours after his name appeared in Eric Chelle’s 54-man provisional squad for the fast-approaching Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, scheduled to begin on December 21 in Morocco.
Although he represented the Netherlands at youth level, Ekong committed fully to Nigeria in 2015, making his senior debut in an AFCON qualifier against Chad. His career with the Eagles would go on to be defined by resilience, leadership, and big-game performances.
He featured at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and became one of the team’s key leaders from 2021. In 2019, he won bronze at the AFCON in Egypt.
READ ALSO: Osimhen, Trust-Ekong clash in Super Eagles camp
Ekong enjoyed his finest moment during the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, scoring three crucial goals — including a commanding header in the final. Though Nigeria finished with silver, he was named the tournament’s best player, a rare honour for a defender.
Across ten years of national service, Ekong made 83 appearances and scored eight goals, cementing his place as one of Nigeria’s most influential modern-day football leaders.
News of the captain’s retirement sparked an outpouring of emotions across social media, especially on Instagram, where notable figures and fans shared heartfelt messages.
Nigerian entertainer Falz wrote, “Skippoooo! 👑 Thank you for making us proud always 💚🤍💚,” celebrating the defender’s legacy.
Another fan, Ola Aina, commented, “My champion!!! 👏🥺,” showing admiration for Ekong’s impact.
The reaction from @kelechiafc captured the mood of many Nigerians:
“Skip, respectfully from the comments, you can see that Nigerians aren’t happy with this decision. Please reconsider if possible in as much as I respect your decision 🙏.”
In a second comment, he added, “No nah Skippo 😔. Leader, Captain and Legend 🫡. All the best for the future Skip 🙏.”
Former teammate @paulebere posted a simple but emotional, “❤️🙏🏽.”
Crediblenewsng.com
