Troost-Ekong reveals his only regret after emotional Super Eagles retirement

Former Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has admitted that stepping away from international football left him with one enduring regret: never winning the Africa Cup of Nations or playing in another World Cup with Nigeria.

The 32-year-old defender officially announced his retirement just weeks before the 2025 AFCON, ending a remarkable journey that saw him captain Nigeria on the biggest stages of African football.

Speaking after his announcement, Troost-Ekong described representing Nigeria as “the greatest privilege of his life.”

“HONOURED. GRATEFUL. FOREVER A SUPER EAGLE. The journey may end here, but my support never will,” he wrote.

Despite finding peace in his decision, the former Watford star confessed to his biggest personal disappointment.

“Selfishly, I would have loved to lift the Africa Cup of Nations and play at one more World Cup.”

Reflecting on his career, the Dutch-born defender admitted his achievements surpassed anything he imagined growing up.

“I would dream big, bigger than other people believed in me or thought was possible. To go in this direction with Nigeria… I would not have been able to write it down. I’ve lived beyond my wildest dreams,” he told Standard Sport.

Troost-Ekong’s last full match for Nigeria came in October against Lesotho, where he scored in a 2-1 victory. But with emerging defenders such as Benjamin Frederick breaking through, his role began to diminish.