Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi have paid glowing tributes to team captain William Troost-Ekong, who has announced his retirement from international football.
The 32-year-old defender ends his Nigeria career after ten years, 83 caps, and eight goals bowing out just days before the national team kicks off its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco.
Troost-Ekong shared the news in a personal statement on Thursday, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to represent the country. He described playing for Nigeria as the “greatest privilege” of his career and pledged his continued support for the national team even as he moves on to a new chapter.
His announcement sparked an emotional reaction from Osimhen, who has played alongside him since his early days with the Super Eagles.
The Galatasaray striker praised the outgoing captain’s leadership and professionalism, noting that Troost-Ekong set high standards on and off the pitch. Osimhen thanked him for his contributions to the team and wished him continued success, calling him a “legend.”
Iwobi also reflected on the retirement during an interview with SportyTV’s Kelechi. The Fulham midfielder said the decision hit the team hard because Troost-Ekong was a central figure in the squad.
Despite reduced playing time toward the end of his national-team career, Iwobi highlighted the defender’s influence in the dressing room—his voice, leadership, and ability to keep the group united.
He added that Troost-Ekong will be greatly missed but believes other leaders in the team can continue the standard he set.
Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, Troost-Ekong represented the Netherlands at youth level before committing to Nigeria. He made his senior debut on June 13, 2015, in an AFCON qualifier against Chad.
He holds the record for the highest number of AFCON goals scored by a defender, netting five in the tournament. His last appearance for Nigeria came on November 13 as a late substitute against Gabon.
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