Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, at 32 years old, has announced his retirement from international football, drawing the curtain on a decade-long career with the Nigerian national team. This significant decision was made just two weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Morocco, where Nigeria is set to kick off its campaign on December 23rd against Tanzania. His announcement, shared via a personal message stating, “Honoured. Grateful. Forever a Super Eagle,” marks the end of an illustrious journey that saw him earn 83 caps and score eight goals for his country.

Troost-Ekong's career with the Super Eagles was marked by numerous achievements and memorable moments. He secured a bronze medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics and another bronze at the 2019 AFCON. His finest hour came at the delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where he captained Nigeria to the final and was named Player of the Tournament, even scoring in the final match. His last 90-minute appearance for Nigeria was in a 2-1 victory over Lesotho in October, a match in which he netted his eighth international goal.

The decision to retire was multifaceted, stemming partly from a perceived diminishing role within the squad as younger talent like Benjamin Frederick began to rise. Troost-Ekong confessed to having sleepless nights over his continuity in the team, and although some teammates tried to dissuade him, he ultimately chose to step away when he felt the team's leadership would be in capable hands. He harbored two significant regrets: not lifting the AFCON trophy with the Super Eagles and missing out on the opportunity to represent Nigeria at one more World Cup after playing in Russia seven years prior. Nigeria’s subsequent loss to DR Congo on penalties in the World Cup play-offs meant this dream remained unfulfilled.

Reflecting on his journey, the Holland-born Nigerian expressed immense pride and gratitude, stating he had lived beyond his wildest dreams. “Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life,” he wrote. He also emphasized the joy he derived from inspiring young boys to aspire to play for the Super Eagles, a legacy he cherishes deeply.

Beyond his on-field contributions, Troost-Ekong was a vocal advocate for higher standards within Nigerian football. He spoke out about the need for improvements within the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), particularly concerning organization, talent discovery, and nurturing. Notably, just before Nigeria's World Cup play-off game against Gabon, he led players in a strike over unpaid wages from the NFF, highlighting systemic issues. He believes that players from elite environments have a responsibility to push for necessary changes to elevate Nigerian football.

His retirement has elicited heartfelt tributes from teammates and fans alike. Striker Victor Osimhen praised Troost-Ekong’s guidance, humility, and professionalism, calling him a legend. Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi described the moment as emotional, acknowledging Troost-Ekong’s significant influence as a leader in the dressing room, even when his playing minutes dwindled. Iwobi noted that his voice and efforts in fostering team togetherness were invaluable, and his exit now increases leadership responsibilities for other experienced squad members.

As the AFCON 2025 tournament approaches, William Troost-Ekong will be watching as a passionate fan from Morocco. He expressed nerves but also immense pride, hoping the Super Eagles can clinch the title for the first time in over a decade, a victory he would still feel a part of. He remains committed to Nigerian football, stating it will always be close to his heart, and hopes to contribute to its improvement moving forward. His departure comes at a crucial time for Nigeria's defense, especially with the news that Benjamin Frederick will also be unavailable for the AFCON tournament, leaving Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey as the primary experienced centre-back pairing for Coach Eric Chelle.