Former Nigerian captain calls for unity and backs the team ahead of AFCON 2025.
Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has strongly dismissed reports suggesting that he was forced out of international football due to internal disagreements with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) or tensions with head coach Eric Chelle. The seasoned defender emphasized that his decision to retire from the national team was entirely voluntary and made on his own terms.
Troost-Ekong’s retirement announcement in early December stunned many Nigerian football followers, coming less than three weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Initial speculation linked his departure to alleged fallout within the team environment, including reports on bonus disputes and tactical disagreements.
However, in a direct statement shared on his official X account, the Netherlands-born defender clarified that no one forced him to quit the Super Eagles. He stressed that his exit was a personal decision grounded in reflection on a decade-long international career and not because of pressure from the NFF or technical staff.
“This just isn’t true. I retired on my own terms and for my own reasons. None of the above-mentioned. Wish you all the best. My full support is to Coach Chelle and the team for the upcoming AFCON.” – William Troost-Ekong (via X)
The former captain also made it clear that efforts were made to convince him to reconsider, countering narratives that painted his exit as acrimonious. Rather, he expressed continued support for the Super Eagles’ ambitions, especially ahead of major tournaments.
Legacy and Retirement
Troost-Ekong’s decision brings to a close a distinguished chapter with Nigeria’s senior national team. Across 83 international caps; making him one of the most capped defenders in Super Eagles history. He led the team through multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and World Cup qualifiers.
The NFF has since paid tribute to his leadership, lauding his professionalism, commitment, and patriotic service over ten years with the national side. In its official statement, the federation highlighted his influence in key campaigns and his role in mentoring younger Nigerian defenders.
Teammates and fellow Nigerian internationals, including Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi, have publicly acknowledged Troost-Ekong’s contribution to the Super Eagles, describing his retirement as the end of an era in Nigerian football.
What This Means for Nigeria
With AFCON 2025 approaching, the Super Eagles now face the task of transitioning leadership and defensive responsibility to the next generation. Discussions around potential captains and defensive stalwarts have already begun among fans and pundits.
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