Ahmed Musa retires as Super Eagles captain, ends 15-year International career

Ahmed Musa, Nigeria’s most capped international footballer, has officially announced his retirement from the Super Eagles, bringing an end to an illustrious career that spanned almost 15 years.

The Super Eagles captain announced in an emotional post shared on X (formerly Twitter), thanking Nigerians for their unwavering support throughout his journey.

“After a lot of thought, I have decided to retire from international football, bringing to an end almost 15 years with the Super Eagles,” Musa wrote.

Musa reflected on his humble beginnings, recalling how his national team journey began when he was simultaneously invited to the U-20, U-23, and senior Super Eagles teams.

“I was just a young boy when the journey started. I was young, still learning, and always travelling, but I never complained. Whenever Nigeria called, I showed up,” he said.

Over the course of his career, Musa earned 111 caps, making him the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football, a record he described as a “great honour.”

Among his most cherished achievements were Nigeria’s triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and his goals at the FIFA World Cup.

“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out,” Musa noted.

He continued, “Scoring at the World Cup, against Argentina and Iceland, are memories I will always carry with me.”

Musa scored four goals at the World Cup, making him Nigeria’s highest goalscorer in the tournament’s history.

Beyond goals and appearances, Musa’s tenure as Super Eagles captain marked a significant chapter in his career.

He spoke candidly about the responsibility that came with wearing the armband.

“Being captain of the Super Eagles taught me a lot, about responsibility, patience, and putting others first,” he wrote.

He added, “It was never about being in charge, but about helping the team and standing up for the badge.”

Musa expressed deep gratitude to teammates, coaches, administrators, and fans both at home and abroad.

He said, “Football gave me a career, but Nigeria gave me meaning. As I step away from international football, I do so with peace and gratitude.”

He concluded with words that resonate with generations of fans: “Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Thank you, Nigeria. Thank you for everything.”