Troost-Ekong Bids Emotional Farewell to Super Eagles After a Decade of Service

William Troost-Ekong has opened up on his decision to walk away from the Nigerian national team, sharing the emotions, memories, and difficult realities behind calling time on his Super Eagles career.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the former Nigeria captain explained that the choice wasn’t rushed.
According to him, it was the right moment to step aside after a decade of representing the country.

“I’ve had a lot of time to think about this,” he said. “It felt like the right time. I’ve had a great run with the Super Eagles. Of course, missing the World Cup played a part—because that was something I really hoped would be the final chapter of my journey.”

He added that he sees the transition as a natural passing of the baton.
“The next generation is ready,” he said. “Some of the boys I’ve played with for years now deserve the chance to create their own story. It’s bittersweet, but it feels right.”

A Journey Filled With Pride

Troost-Ekong reflected warmly on what the national team has meant to him.

“Playing for Nigeria has been one of the biggest honours of my life. I have so many memories—great tournaments, incredible moments, and a group of teammates who became like family.”

He recalled his debut in 2015 under the late Stephen Keshi as the moment everything began.
“I couldn’t believe it,” he said. “My first call-up, my first start, winning that first match—it felt unreal. And to later become captain? I could never have imagined that.”

The defender also spoke about how meaningful it was to be part of a generation that helped open doors for players of Nigerian descent born overseas.
“It’s something special to me—to be part of that change.”

Highs, Lows, and the Weight of the Shirt

Ekong didn’t shy away from acknowledging the difficult moments.

“There were highs and lows—missing tournaments, tough defeats, falling short when it mattered. But those moments shaped me just as much as the good ones.”

He described the bond with his teammates and fans as something that sustained him throughout the journey.
“Nigeria’s shirt is heavy. You feel everything. For ten years, I lived those highs and lows fully. And I’ll cherish all of it.”

AFCON Heartbreak and Unfinished Dreams

The former captain admitted that missing out on major milestones—like lifting the AFCON trophy or returning to the World Cup—made the decision harder.

“You dream of the perfect ending,” he said. “I would have loved to win AFCON or play another World Cup with this group. But life changes—you think about family, about injuries, about what you can give.”

Ultimately, he felt he could no longer commit at the level required.
“If you can’t give 100 percent, it’s time to let others step forward. And we have so much talent coming through.”

A Legacy Secured

Troost-Ekong retires with 83 caps, appearances in five major tournaments—including the World Cup and three AFCON editions—and two bronze medals (AFCON and the Rio Olympics).
He captained the team to the 2023 AFCON final, where he was named Player of the Tournament, and he holds the record for the most goals by a defender in a single AFCON edition.

His legacy, both as a leader and as a player, remains firmly etched in Super Eagles history.