Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi have offered emotional tributes to Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, who has officially announced his retirement from international football. The 32-year-old defender steps away after ten years of committed service, during which he earned 83 caps and scored eight goals. His decision comes just days before Nigeria kick off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Morocco.
Troost-Ekong revealed the news in a personal note shared on Thursday, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent Nigeria. “Honoured. Grateful. Forever a Super Eagle,” he wrote. “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.”
The announcement resonated strongly within the national team, especially with players who had grown alongside him. Victor Osimhen, who has played with Troost-Ekong since his early days with the Super Eagles, responded with heartfelt admiration. The striker praised the outgoing captain’s leadership and character, saying, “It’s been an honour sharing the pitch with you, skippo. Your humility, guidance, and professionalism pushed all of us to improve. Thank you for everything you’ve given the team and the country. You deserve the very best ahead. You’re a legend.”
Alex Iwobi also reflected on Troost-Ekong’s departure during an interview with SportyTV’s Kelechi, describing the moment as deeply emotional for the entire squad. According to the Fulham midfielder, Troost-Ekong remained an influential figure in the team even when he was no longer a regular starter.
“It’s sad for us because he has always been a major part of the team,” Iwobi said. “He’s like a brother. He’s helped Nigeria, and he’s helped me personally. Even when he wasn’t getting as many minutes toward the end, his presence was felt—his voice, his leadership, and the unity he brought to the squad.”
Iwobi added that Troost-Ekong’s absence will be strongly felt but expressed confidence that other leaders will rise to continue the culture he helped build. “He’ll be missed for sure. He was a big leader for us, but I know others will follow in his footsteps. We all wish him the best.”
Troost-Ekong, currently playing for Al-Kholood in the Saudi Pro League, was born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and a Nigerian father. After representing the Netherlands at youth level, he pledged his senior career to Nigeria and made his debut on June 13, 2015, in an AFCON qualifier against Chad. He leaves behind a remarkable record, including five Africa Cup of Nations goals—a competition record for a defender. His final match for Nigeria came as a late substitute against Gabon on November 13.
