William Troost-Ekong rehabilitation update shared by PAOK

Troost-Ekong endured an injury setback during Nigeria’s second group stage match against Cote d’Ivoire at the AFCON. Although he missed the subsequent match against Guinea-Bissau, he returned to action during the knockout stages and played a key role as Nigeria progressed to the tournament final.

His standout performances earned him the accolade of the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. However, post-tournament medical evaluations revealed that the 29-year-old center-back had suffered a ruptured biceps femoris in his right leg.

Following the diagnosis, Troost-Ekong underwent surgery in Finland, with initial projections indicating that he would be sidelined for the remainder of the season.

Consequently, he has been absent from action for his club, PAOK FC, including their Europa Conference League quarterfinal clash against Club Brugge, which ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat for PAOK in the first leg.

While Troost-Ekong was not included in PAOK’s squad for the second leg, the Greek club provided an update on his rehabilitation progress. Although he did not participate in team training, he engaged in physiotherapy sessions and gym work as part of his recovery regimen.

Despite the setback, Troost-Ekong’s potential availability for Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifiers in June remains uncertain.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to face South Africa and Benin Republic in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification matches that could impact their qualification prospects.

Whether he is invited for the game or not, Ekong will be in Nigeria before the South Africa game for the launch of his foundation.