Troost-Ekong Focused on Super Eagles, Rules Out Retirement
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has made it clear he has no plans to retire from international football anytime soon. The 31-year-old remains committed to representing Nigeria and believes he still has much to contribute to the team.
Speaking ahead of Monday’s AFCON 2025 qualifier against Rwanda, Troost-Ekong said, “People ask me about retirement a lot, but I think it’s too early to talk about that.”
The Al-Kholood defender recently earned his 75th cap and is one of the most experienced players in the current squad, alongside Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon. Despite being the most senior member of the team, Troost-Ekong feels he is playing some of the best football of his career.
“I’m 31 now and feel like I’m in my prime,” he said. “The AFCON in 2025 is just a year away, and I’m focused on that. After that, we’ll see.”
The former MVP of the Africa Cup of Nations also has his sights set on the 2026 FIFA World Cup. “It’s not my decision to make. It depends on the coaches. If I feel I’m no longer useful to the team, I’ll discuss it, but for now, I have goals to achieve.”
Troost-Ekong will lead the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo for their final AFCON qualifier. With Nigeria already qualified, the team aims to finish the campaign unbeaten as they face Rwanda.
