“A New Era Awaits” — More Super Eagles Stars Likely to Retire After AFCON 2025, Says Adepoju Tobi Samuel
The Nigerian national team could be heading toward a major transition after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with more players expected to bow out of international football.
This follows the unexpected announcement from Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, who on Thursday confirmed his retirement from national duty — a decision that stunned fans, especially as he had been named in Eric Chelle’s provisional squad for the upcoming tournament.
Reacting to the development, Shooting Stars Sporting Director, Adepoju Tobi Samuel, hinted that Troost-Ekong’s exit may be the beginning of a wave of departures.
He wrote on X:
“After the AFCON in Morocco, a few members of the team will retire.
We must start afresh after the AFCON & build a winning squad for the 2027 AFCON.
The decision to start afresh and a rebuilding process should start with Victor Osimhen being named as captain in Morocco.”
💭 Opinion: A Necessary Rebuild or Too Much, Too Fast?
While retirement news may feel like heartbreak for supporters, this could mark the start of something exciting for Nigerian football.
The Super Eagles have relied on the same backbone of experienced players for years — warriors who have served the nation with pride. But every era eventually gives way to the next. And perhaps this upcoming AFCON might be the farewell chapter for several heroes who have given their best on the international stage.
⚽ Why the rebuild might be good:
Fresh talent brings fresh hunger
A younger squad can grow together toward AFCON 2027 and World Cup 2026
Leadership transition now helps avoid future chaos
Naming Victor Osimhen the next captain? That idea comes with fire. Osimhen isn’t just Nigeria’s top striker — he’s already the emotional heartbeat of the team. His passion, energy and fearless spirit could be exactly what the new-look Super Eagles need.
But rebuilding also means patience. Fans must accept that change takes time, mistakes will be made, and growth often arrives in stages… not overnight.
The big question now is:
When the dust of AFCON 2025 settles, what will the new Nigeria look like?
A stronger, younger, bolder squad — or a team struggling to rediscover its identity?
Either way, one thing is clear: A new Super Eagles era is coming. And the journey promises to be thrilling — full of hope, heart, and the unstoppable spirit of Naija.
