Wilfred Ndidi: Super Eagles captain explains how playing for Nigeria has helped his career

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Onyinye Ndidi described the experience of playing for the Nigerian national team, and the impact it has had on his footballing career.

The 29-year-old is a leader through and through. He was named Besiktas vice-captain moments after he joined as a free agent and was made Super Eagles captain after the retirement of William Troost-Ekong.

Holding a leadership position for club and country signals the strength of Ndidi’s character, and the former Leicester City star has credited representing Nigeria for helping build said character. 

“It’s the greatest honour. Wearing the green and white carries history, pride, and responsibility. You feel the hopes of millions, and it pushes you to give everything,” he said about representing Nigeria in an interview with Punch.

“Making my debut at a young age, learning from experienced teammates, winning important matches, and growing through tough periods. With Nigeria, every call-up is special, and big qualification games stay with you. Those moments build character.”

Wilfred showed that strength of character recently when he was able to train with the Besiktas squad only a day after he lost his father, Mr Sunday Ndidi. As Pulse Sports reported, the national team captain lost his father to a ghastly motor accident, and Besiktas, as a club, commiserated with him online and with a tribute at the Topras Stadium.