Troost-Ekong Denies Retirement Rumors, Reaffirms Commitment to National Team
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Troost-Ekong Denies Retirement Rumors, Reaffirms Commitment to National Team
Veteran Defender Says It’s Too Early to Consider Retirement as Focus Shifts to Upcoming AFCON and World Cup
Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has dismissed rumors suggesting that he may retire from international football after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The 31-year-old central defender, who plays for Al-Kholood in Saudi Arabia, stated that it is far too early to make such a decision, reaffirming his commitment to Nigeria’s national team.
Troost-Ekong’s comments came ahead of Nigeria’s final AFCON qualifier against Rwanda, scheduled to take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. With 75 international caps to his name, Troost-Ekong remains a key figure in the Super Eagles’ defense.
“It’s Too Early to Talk About Retirement”
At a press briefing on Sunday, Troost-Ekong addressed the persistent rumors surrounding his future with the national team. Despite being the oldest player in the current Super Eagles squad, he made it clear that he has no immediate plans to retire.
“I often get asked this question by Nigerians, but I think it’s too early to consider retirement,” Troost-Ekong explained. “I’m 31 now and believe I’m playing some of the best football of my career. AFCON 2025 is just 12 months away, and we’ll reassess things after that.”
Troost-Ekong’s statement serves to put to rest speculation that his international career may be winding down after the next Africa Cup of Nations. Instead, the defender expressed his desire to remain focused on the immediate goals of the Super Eagles.
Focused on Immediate Goals: AFCON and 2026 World Cup
The Super Eagles captain also shared that his decision about retirement will depend on his performance and his ability to contribute to the team. He noted that any potential departure from international football would be based on his fitness and his role within the squad.
“I’ll keep playing as long as I feel I’m an asset to the team,” Troost-Ekong said. “Once I feel I’m no longer able to give my best, then I’ll have that discussion. But for now, I’m focused on helping the team achieve success in the upcoming tournaments.”
Looking ahead, Troost-Ekong is focused on the immediate challenges facing the Super Eagles, including the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He revealed that he has clear targets for both tournaments, and that these will be his priorities before making any decisions about his future in international football.
Leadership Role and Legacy with the Super Eagles
Troost-Ekong’s leadership role within the Super Eagles has been pivotal, and his experience is invaluable to the team. As the squad’s captain, he has been at the heart of Nigeria’s defense for several years, providing both leadership and stability.
Despite being the oldest player in the team, Troost-Ekong’s experience is complemented by younger players like Moses Simon (29) and Alex Iwobi (28), who follow closely behind him in age. Together, they form part of the core of a squad with a blend of youth and experience, which Troost-Ekong believes will be crucial for Nigeria’s success in the upcoming competitions.
Looking Ahead: Rwanda and the Road to AFCON 2025
As the Super Eagles prepare for their final AFCON qualifier against Rwanda, Troost-Ekong has his sights set on securing qualification for the 2025 tournament. He could add to his international cap tally in today’s match, further solidifying his legacy as one of Nigeria’s key players.
With his focus firmly on the immediate tasks at hand, Troost-Ekong’s commitment to representing Nigeria on the international stage remains unwavering. As he looks toward AFCON 2025 and the 2026 World Cup, the Super Eagles captain is determined to give his best for the national team for as long as he can.
A Key Player for the Super Eagles
Troost-Ekong’s experience and leadership make him a crucial part of Nigeria’s defense. Despite the retirement rumors, the Al-Kholood defender remains focused on the team’s goals, with his eye on the challenges ahead in the African Cup of Nations and the World Cup qualifiers. For now, the Super Eagles and their captain are focused on achieving success, one match at a time.
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