Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi have paid glowing tributes to team captain William Troost-Ekong, who has officially called time on his international career after a decade of committed service to Nigeria.
Troost-Ekong, 32, confirmed his retirement on Thursday, closing a chapter that saw him make 83 appearances, score eight goals, and feature in two Africa Cup of Nations finals.
The announcement arrives just days before Nigeria kick off their 2025 AFCON campaign in Morocco, adding an emotional undertone to the team’s preparations.
Osimhen: “Legend Forever”
Reacting to the news, Osimhen took to 𝕏 to celebrate the defender’s impact. The Galatasaray striker described Troost-Ekong as a steadying force and an example both on and off the field.
“It’s been an honour sharing the pitch with you, Skippo,” Osimhen wrote. “Your guidance, humility and professionalism pushed all of us to be better. Thank you for everything you’ve given to the team and to Nigeria. You’ve earned all the greatness coming your way. Legend forever.”
Iwobi: “He Was the Heart of Our Togetherness”
Iwobi, speaking to SportyTV, admitted the news left the Super Eagles camp in a reflective and emotional mood.
“Of course it’s sad for us because he’s such a huge part of this team,” the Fulham midfielder said. “I wish him nothing but the best. He’s a brother, and he’s helped Nigeria — and he’s helped me personally.”
He added that Troost-Ekong’s leadership transcended match minutes, especially toward the end of his international run.
“Even when he wasn’t playing as much as he would have liked, his influence never dropped. His presence, his voice, the way he kept the team united — that was priceless.”
A Career Rooted in Identity and Determination
Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, Troost-Ekong represented the Netherlands at youth level before pledging his senior career to Nigeria. He made his Super Eagles debut on 13 June 2015 in an AFCON qualifier against Chad.
His remarkable five-goal haul across AFCON tournaments remains the highest-ever tally by a defender in the competition’s history — a record that underscores his unique blend of defensive grit and attacking instinct.
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His final outing in the green and white came as a late substitute in Nigeria’s match against Gabon on 13 November 2025.
Troost-Ekong currently plies his trade with Al-Kholood in the Saudi Pro League, where he continues to command respect as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished modern defenders.
