Nigeria: Is it time for Williams Troost-Ekong to retire from the Super Eagles?

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has categorically denied any intentions of retiring from the Nigerian national team after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Soccernet.ng reports.

The 31-year-old defender, who debuted for Nigeria in 2015, remains one of the team’s most experienced players with over 70 caps to his name.

Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch-Nigerian family, Troost-Ekong chose to represent Nigeria at the senior level, carving out an impressive international career.

His contributions have been pivotal, including a historic tally of five goals at AFCON — the highest ever by a defender in the tournament’s history.

His standout performances earned him the Player of the Tournament award despite Nigeria’s 2–1 loss in the 2023 final against Ivory Coast.

Now playing for Al-Kholood in Saudi Arabia, Troost-Ekong is entering the later stages of his career.

Speculation about his future arose after the Super Eagles qualified for the 2025 AFCON, but the former Watford and Udinese defender remains adamant about his commitment to the team.

“I am still 31; the next AFCON is just 12 months away, and there’s still the 2026 World Cup tournament to look forward to,” he stated.

“After that, we will see! It’s not my decision. As long as I am still invited by the coaches, I still have much more to give.”

The Super Eagles coaching staff appears to be planning for the future, with Auxerre defender Gabriel Osho recently earning a call-up.

However, Troost-Ekong is clear about his intentions to lead Nigeria into both the upcoming AFCON and the World Cup before considering retirement.

The Al-Kholood star played a crucial role in securing Nigeria’s qualification for AFCON with two games to spare. He is also expected to feature prominently as the Super Eagles face Rwanda tonight.