Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has revealed that he misses life with Nigeria’s national football team, months after retiring from international football.
The 32-year-old defender, who ended a decade-long international career last year, said he remains content with his decision to step away from the national team but still longs for the camaraderie and atmosphere that came with representing Nigeria.
Speaking on the Bassey Talks podcast alongside current Super Eagles stars Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Joe Aribo and Calvin Bassey, Troost-Ekong reflected on life after retirement.
“More than anything, I miss being with the guys. I miss being with… this is family to me, you know,” he said.
The former Watford defender added that watching the Super Eagles from afar often stirs emotions.
“I envision again like walking out for the first time, walking out on the pitch, those games, those moments. But I have no regrets and it was my decision to stop,” Troost-Ekong said.
“Of course, I thought about it so much, so much went on in my head, but I don’t think I necessarily miss that part.
“I might do again later but I’m content. But I miss the team environment and when I see the team on TV now, I have my hands itching like I want to be there with them again, to share those moments. But besides that, I’m good, guys.”
Troost-Ekong retired shortly after Nigeria’s unsuccessful attempt to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing to an end one of the most distinguished defensive careers in the country’s recent football history.
Born in the Netherlands, he made his debut for the Super Eagles under the late Stephen Keshi and quickly established himself as a key figure in Nigeria’s defence. Alongside Leon Balogun, he formed the celebrated “Oyibo Wall” partnership that anchored the team for several years.
One of the standout moments of his international career came at the previous Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where he captained Nigeria to the final and scored three goals. Although the Super Eagles finished runners-up to the host nation, Troost-Ekong was named the tournament’s Best Player and became the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history with five goals.
He retired with 83 international appearances, eight goals, an Olympic bronze medal from Rio as well as AFCON silver and bronze medals, cementing his place among Nigeria’s most accomplished defenders.
Despite stepping away from international football, Troost-Ekong’s latest comments suggest his bond with the Super Eagles remains as strong as ever.
