Iwobi Speaks on Troost-Ekong’s Emotional Super Eagles Exit

Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has reacted to William Troost-Ekong’s sudden retirement from the Super Eagles, calling it an emotional moment for the squad ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Troost-Ekong, 32, confirmed his exit from international football despite being named in Nigeria’s provisional 54-man list. The former captain, who made 83 appearances for the country, stepped away just weeks before the team begins its AFCON campaign.

Speaking to SportyTV’s Kelechi, Iwobi said the news saddened the team, describing Troost-Ekong as someone who contributed greatly on and off the pitch. “It is a sad one for us… he is a brother he has helped Nigeria and me,” he said, adding that the squad wishes him the best in his next chapter.

Iwobi admitted the defender “wasn't playing as much” toward the end of his national-team career but stressed that his leadership, voice, and ability to keep the group united remained invaluable. He described him as “a big leader” whose influence in the dressing room will be missed.

Iwobi, now one of the senior figures in the team, said he is ready to take on more leadership roles at AFCON. Nigeria will face Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in Group C, starting their campaign on December 23.