The Digest:
Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi have paid moving tributes to captain William Troost-Ekong following his retirement from international football. The 32-year-old defender steps away after 83 caps, leaving a leadership void just before Nigeria’s AFCON campaign. Rooted in the Storm.
Key Points:
- William Troost-Ekong retired after a decade, 83 appearances, and eight goals for Nigeria.
- His departure comes shortly after leading a training boycott over unpaid wages before World Cup qualifiers.
- Victor Osimhen hailed him as a “legend” whose guidance pushed the team to be better.
- Alex Iwobi called it a “sad” moment, praising Ekong’s unifying voice and leadership in the camp.
- Iwobi acknowledged that Ekong’s influence remained strong even when his playing time reduced.
- The retirement increases leadership responsibility for senior players ahead of AFCON 2025.
- Troost-Ekong stated that playing for Nigeria was “the greatest privilege” of his life.
His exit marks the close of a principled chapter for the Super Eagles, a captain who led both on the pitch and in the fight for fairness.
Sources: Soccernet, SportyTV.
