AFCON 2025: 'Even when Ekong was here' — Osimhen backs Ndidi captaincy for Super Eagles

Victor Osimhen has thrown his full weight behind newly appointed captain Wilfred Ndidi, describing the midfielder as a natural leader who has earned the right to lead Nigeria into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Ndidi was officially named the team's new captain, taking over the armband following the international retirement of William Troost-Ekong.

Speaking in an interview with Football Fans Tribe from the team's base in Morocco, Osimhen expressed his delight at the choice, noting that the Besiktas star has been a cornerstone of the squad’s leadership for a long time.

“Wilfred is one of the leaders even when Ekong was here as our captain, I think he has also learned a lot from Ekong because Ekong is one of the best captains since I arrived here alongside Mikel Obi and Musa,” Osimhen said.

The Galatasaray forward made it clear that the entire Super Eagles squad is united behind Ndidi’s leadership as they prepare for their opening Group C fixture.

“I am happy he was given the captaincy and for me it is just to support him, all of us, not just the assistants, not just Simon.

"Everyone of us will support him because he is a good guy on and off the pitch. You know even on the pitch he gives his all. I think he deserves it and all of us go rally around him to help him on and off the pitch, so I am happy for him.”

The Super Eagles will kick off their AFCON 2025 campaign in Group C against Tanzania on Tuesday, December 23, before facing Tunisia on December 27.

They will round off the group stage against Uganda on December 30.