‘It felt like the right time’ — Troost-Ekong explains retirement from Int’l football

Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has explained his decision to walk away from international football.

He described the emotional toll, escalating pressure and timing of the call as a culmination of a long personal journey.

After a decade-long national team career that delivered Olympic bronze, an AFCON bronze, and a runner-up finish in 2023, where he was named Player of the Tournament, Troost-Ekong says the moment felt right, even if unexpected for millions of Nigerians.

“It just felt like the right time for me,” he told Sky Sports, adding that stepping back was “bittersweet but necessary.”

A career defined by highs and harsh criticism

Troost-Ekong departs as Nigeria’s ninth-most capped player with 83 appearances.

His journey was marked by dramatic swings, from scoring in the AFCON 2023 final to leading a team overwhelmed by relentless criticism after losing to hosts Ivory Coast.

He admitted the media scrutiny and fan pressure often became overwhelming, noting that the environment could be “a lot sometimes,” especially after painful defeats.

His final AFCON as captain was already clouded by internal tension with the former coach prior to the tournament, a factor he says made him more reflective and emotional about the competition being his last.

Pressure, abuse and the toll on leadership

The centre-back acknowledged the burden of leadership during difficult moments, especially when players like Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi faced intense backlash after AFCON 2023.

He described his role as trying to “absorb” pressure and protect the squad, even when the expectations of fans and the volatility of the media made the dressing room feel under siege.

“You have to create a circle around the team and treat that as a family,” he said.

Belief in the next generation

Despite stepping away, Troost-Ekong believes Nigeria are poised for success at AFCON 2025.

He highlighted the maturity of players such as Iwobi and Bassey, the consistency of Victor Osimhen, and the rising influence of Ademola Lookman and Wilfred Ndidi.

He sees the current squad as ready to “write their own story,” adding that lessons from the 2023 final could push the team over the line.

“The team are very well placed to achieve something at this AFCON,” he said. “If they win it, I would still feel part of that generation.”

Troost-Ekong’s departure closes a notable chapter in Super Eagles history, one defined by commitment and leadership, but he insists his support for the team will continue as they chase a first AFCON title since 2013.