Troost-Ekong Explains Early Nigeria Exit as He Retires Before AFCON

William Troost-Ekong has revealed the emotional and personal reasons behind his decision to retire from international football before next year’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The 32-year-old confirmed he had “sleepless nights” while thinking about stepping away and had already decided the play-off against DR Congo would be his final game. He announced his retirement to team-mates in the dressing room after Nigeria’s penalty shootout defeat, calling it a painful but necessary moment.

Troost-Ekong explained that years of injury struggles, including major hamstring surgery last year, pushed him to accept that “there is an art in knowing when to step away.” He said he wanted to leave at a time when Nigeria’s younger players are ready to lead, adding: “Now is the moment for them to claim that… the team is ready because we’ve got great leaders.”

He admitted he would have “loved to lift the Africa Cup of Nations and play at one more World Cup,” but felt it was the right time, especially after sensing the end during the DR Congo game when “my heart was pounding like crazy.”

The captain said what comforts him most is inspiring others, especially young Nigerians abroad, noting: “They say they look up to me… they give you a real sense of pride.”