Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi have paid heartfelt tributes to captain William Troost-Ekong following his retirement from international football after a decade of service.
Troost-Ekong, 32, announced his decision on Thursday, ending a distinguished career that saw him earn 83 caps and score eight goals, including appearances in two Africa Cup of Nations finals. His retirement comes just days before Nigeria begin their 2025 AFCON campaign in Morocco.
Reacting to the news, Osimhen took to 𝕏 to express his gratitude, describing Troost-Ekong as a mentor on and off the pitch.
He wrote:
“It’s been an honour sharing the pitch with you, Skippo. Your guidance, humility, and professionalism inspired us all to strive for excellence. Thank you for everything you’ve given to the team and Nigeria. Wishing you greatness ahead. You’ve earned it. Legend forever.”
Iwobi shared similar sentiments in an interview with SportyTV, calling the announcement an emotional moment for the team.
“Obviously, it is a sad one for us because he is a big part of our team. But at the end of the day, I wish him well, he is a brother, he has helped Nigeria and me,” said the Fulham midfielder.
Iwobi also highlighted Troost-Ekong’s leadership off the pitch, noting that even as his playing time decreased in recent months, his presence remained vital to team unity and morale.
“Of course, towards the end of his Nigerian career, he wasn’t playing as much as probably he would like, but he was still a big part of our team, his voice, the way he was leading us, and the way he ensured the togetherness in the team was very high and very strong,” Iwobi added.
Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, Troost-Ekong represented the Netherlands at youth level before committing to Nigeria. He made his senior debut on 13 June 2015 against Chad in an AFCON qualifier.
The defender holds the record for the most AFCON goals by a Nigerian defender, scoring five in the competition. His final appearance for the Super Eagles came as a late substitute against Gabon on 13 November 2025.
Troost-Ekong currently plays for Al-Kholood in the Saudi Pro League.
