Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has shocked many football fans by announcing his retirement from international football, only days after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The announcement followed Nigeria’s playoff defeat to DR Congo, however sources revealed that the move had been decided before the match.
Moreover, the timing of the news has raised fresh questions about the leadership gap the Super Eagles may face ahead of AFCON 2025.
Ekong reportedly made the choice because of his contractual obligations with Saudi Arabian club Al Kholood.
According to insiders, he must reach a specific number of club appearances to secure a new deal.
Participating in AFCON 2025 would have prevented him from meeting those terms.
He informed teammates about his retirement in the dressing room, telling them he would “still travel to Morocco to support the squad in a non-playing role.”
The message was received with a mix of shock and respect.
Meanwhile, many supporters believe his presence off the field may still provide some guidance in the months ahead.
Troost-Ekong retirement marks the end of a remarkable tenure for the defender, who made his debut in an AFCON qualifier against Chad ten years ago.
He later formed the iconic “Oyibo Wall” with Leon Balogun, a defensive partnership that helped Nigeria qualify for the 2018 World Cup.
Furthermore, his standout performance at AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire earned him the Most Valuable Player award.
The player expected to replace him, 19-year-old Benjamin Fredrick of Brentford, has been ruled out of AFCON 2025 due to injury.
Therefore, the Super Eagles may enter the tournament with limited defensive experience and no clear successor in place.
Ekong joined Al Kholood from Greek champions PAOK in August 2024 and remains under contract until June 2026, with an option for an additional year.
As the Nigeria Football Federation prepares to release its 55-man provisional squad for Morocco, his absence will remain one of the biggest talking points.
