…Says playing for Nigeria, the greatest privilege of his life
Our Reporter, Abuja
Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a decade-long service to Nigeria marked by leadership, passion and historic achievements.
Troost-Ekong made the announcement in an emotional video message posted on Thursday, saying representing Nigeria “has been the greatest privilege” of his life.
“Today, I’m announcing my retirement from international football,” he said.
The defender recalled how his journey with the national team began in 2015 after receiving a career-defining call from the late Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi.
“In 2015, a phone call from the late Stephen Keshi changed my life. A month later, The Big Boss gave me my debut. His belief in me ignited the desire to follow in his footsteps,” he said.
He added that every moment he stepped onto the pitch wearing the green-white-green jersey, he remembered Keshi’s confidence in him. “Going on to captain the Super Eagles was beyond my wildest dreams.”
Troost-Ekong, born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, said the acceptance he received from Nigerians strengthened his commitment to serve the nation.
“Nigeria took me in and trusted me to lead and represent a nation of 230-plus million. From a boy born and raised in the Netherlands to ‘Oyibo Wall’, eventually ‘Skipo’, it’s a privilege I will always hold close to my heart,” he said.
Reflecting on his career, he expressed pride in earning 83 caps, featuring in five major tournaments, and winning several medals.
“I really lived my dream. A bronze medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics, the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and three incredible AFCON tournaments with a bronze and, most recently, a silver medal — these will remain unforgettable,” he said.
The Super Eagles captain also relived the highlight of his international career: leading Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring in the final, and being named the tournament’s Best Player.
“Being able to lead Nigeria through the 2023 AFCON, scoring in the final, and being named player of the tournament was something so special. To this day, I still wish for a different ending,” he said.
Troost-Ekong also celebrated becoming the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history, noting that the achievement belonged to all his teammates.
He expressed gratitude to coaches, staff, teammates — past and present — and dedicated supporters who stood by him throughout his journey.
“To Nigerian fans, the heartbeat of Nigerian football, your support has carried me through every high and every challenge,” he said.
The 31-year-old stressed that although his international playing career has ended, his commitment to Nigeria remains unwavering.
“This isn’t a final goodbye. My work within Nigerian communities continues, just as my love and passion for the team will never fade.”
He said wearing the Super Eagles shirt “has been more than playing football — it has been a duty, a privilege, and an honour.”
“Honoured. Grateful. Forever a Super Eagle. 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,” Troost-Ekong said.
Recall that Troost-Ekong made the cut in the 54-man provisional squad recently unveiled by the Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
