Troost-Ekong Announces Shock Super Eagles Retirement Weeks Before AFCON

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has officially drawn the curtain on his international career, sending a wave of surprise and emotion across Nigerian football.

The 32-year-old made the announcement on Thursday through a heartfelt video shared on his social media platforms, captioned:

“Honoured. Grateful. Forever a Super Eagle.”

In the video, Troost-Ekong expressed deep appreciation for his journey with Nigeria:

“Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life.
The journey may end here, but my support never will.
Here’s to the next chapter.”

His retirement comes barely weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations — a tournament for which he had already been named in Coach Eric Chelle’s provisional 54-man squad. The timing leaves many fans stunned, wondering what changed behind the scenes.

Troost-Ekong exits the international stage with 83 caps and appearances in five major tournaments, including the 2023 AFCON where he captained Nigeria to a heroic silver medal finish and won the Player of the Tournament award.

📝 Opinion Corner: A Leader’s Goodbye — Too Soon or Perfect Timing?

Troost-Ekong’s decision feels like a bittersweet twist.
On one hand, retiring as the reigning best player from the last AFCON is a poetic finish. He leaves on a high — respected, decorated, and forever etched in the hearts of Nigerians.

On the other hand, this is a team that desperately needs leadership right now. His experience, passion, and vocal presence at the back have been the Super Eagles' anchor for years. Walking away so close to AFCON 2025 raises questions he may never publicly answer.

But perhaps this is what true leadership looks like: knowing when to step aside and allow the next generation to grow without leaning too heavily on its veterans. Troost-Ekong has given his all — through injuries, criticism, and triumph — and earned the right to choose his exit.

One thing is certain:
He may no longer wear the green-white-green jersey…
but his legacy will never retire.