Super Eagles skipper, William Troost-Ekong, has confirmed his retirement from international duty at the age of 36, bringing an end to a decade-long career with Nigeria’s senior national team.
The Dutch-born defender’s decision comes in the wake of Nigeria’s unsuccessful bid to secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Italian journalist and transfer analyst, Fabrizio Romano, disclosed the development on Thursday through his official X handle.
“William Troost-Ekong has decided to retire from international football and won’t play for Nigeria again,” Romano posted.
“After 83 caps, three medals and playing in five major tournaments, Troost-Ekong says goodbye to the Super Eagles.”
Troost-Ekong later addressed fans directly, posting a video and farewell message on X:
“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.”
Throughout his international journey, the centre-back featured 83 times for Nigeria, netting eight goals. His tournament appearances include the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, the 2021 edition in Cameroon, and the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, where he earned the Most Valuable Player award.
He secured a bronze medal with the Super Eagles at AFCON 2019 after a 1–0 win over Tunisia in the third-place match, and added a silver medal at AFCON 2023 following Nigeria’s 2–1 loss to hosts Ivory Coast in the final.
Troost-Ekong also played for Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, where the team exited in the group stage, and was part of the U-23 squad that clinched bronze at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
Although retiring from active involvement on the pitch, Troost-Ekong plans to join the Super Eagles contingent for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco as a non-playing member, offering support as the team targets continental success.
