Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has announced his retirement from international football. At 36, he brings to a close a decade-long career representing Nigeria.
The announcement was first reported by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who revealed on Thursday that the Netherlands-born defender “has decided to retire from international football and won’t play for Nigeria again.” Troost-Ekong later confirmed the news himself, posting a farewell message and video on Instagram and X.
In his message, the former Watford and Udinese centre-back described representing Nigeria as “the greatest privilege” of his life. He added, “The journey may end here, but my support never will. Here’s to the next chapter.” He also reflected on the pride of returning “home to play and represent our beloved nation”, acknowledging it was now time to “pass on the responsibility” and the captaincy.
Troost-Ekong leaves the Super Eagles with 83 appearances and eight goals, having featured in five major tournaments. His international résumé includes the 2018 World Cup in Russia and three editions of the Africa Cup of Nations. He won bronze with Nigeria in 2019 and silver in 2023, earning the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award after a standout campaign in Côte d’Ivoire.
The defender’s career also includes a bronze medal at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games with Nigeria’s U-23 side. Despite initially representing the Netherlands at the youth level, he committed fully to Nigeria in 2015, making his senior debut in an AFCON qualifier against Chad.
Troost-Ekong’s retirement comes less than 48 hours after he was named in coach Eric Chelle’s provisional 54-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
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