Nigeria Coach Eric Chelle Concerned About Troost-Ekong’s Fitness Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers
Nigeria’s manager, Eric Chelle, is worried about the fitness of William Troost-Ekong just weeks before he names his squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, according to reports.
The experienced defender is a key part of Chelle’s plans for the upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. However, Chelle is closely monitoring Troost-Ekong’s recovery from a recent injury before deciding whether to include him in the squad.
Troost-Ekong, who plays for Al-Kholood Club, has not featured in recent matches after injuring himself during a Saudi Pro League game against Al-Orobah FC on February 14. He missed subsequent games against Al-Wehda and Al-Hilal due to the muscle injury.
The 29-year-old also missed Al-Kholood’s last training session in Riyadh ahead of their match against Al-Hilal.
Before the injury, Troost-Ekong had been a regular starter for Al-Kholood this season, playing 1,780 minutes and contributing 2 goals and 1 assist.
Along with Troost-Ekong, there are concerns over the fitness of other players, including Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio), Semi Ajayi (West Brom), and Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge), as Nigeria prepares for the World Cup qualifiers.
