William Troost-Ekong Opens Up on Super Eagles Retirement: ‘My Hands Are Itching to Be There Again’

William Troost-Ekong retired from international football in December 2025, but the 32-year-old defender has made clear that stepping away from the Super Eagles has been far from straightforward on an emotional level.

Speaking on the Bassey Talks podcast, the former Nigeria captain reflected on what he misses most since bringing his international career to a close. “More than anything, I miss being with the guys. I miss being with… this is family to me, you know,” he said. The admission underlines just how significant the national team environment had become to him over the course of a career that spanned more than a decade.

Troost-Ekong described a recurring sense of longing whenever he watches the Super Eagles play. “When I see the team on TV now, my hands are itching like I want to be there with them again, to share those moments,” he said. He also spoke about vivid memories of representing Nigeria that continue to resurface. “I envision again like walking out for the first time, walking out on the pitch, those games, those moments,” he added.

Despite those feelings, the defender was clear that his decision to retire was made deliberately and without regret. “I thought about it so much, so much went on in my head, but I don’t think I necessarily miss that part,” he said, distinguishing between the pressure of the decision itself and the enduring emotional bond he retains with the team.

Troost-Ekong’s international journey began in 2015 under the late coach Stephen Keshi. Born in the Netherlands, he went on to become one of Nigeria’s most consistent defensive presences and a highly respected captain. Alongside Leon Balogun, he formed a centre-back partnership that Nigerian supporters affectionately dubbed the “Oyinbo Wall.”

His international record is substantial. Across 83 appearances for Nigeria, Troost-Ekong scored eight goals — a notable return for a central defender. Among his career honours are an Olympic bronze medal from the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, as well as AFCON silver and bronze medals.

The most celebrated chapter of his international career arrived at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, where he captained the Super Eagles to the final. Troost-Ekong scored three goals during that tournament and was named Player of the Tournament — a remarkable individual achievement given that Nigeria ultimately finished as runners-up.

His retirement in December 2025 brought the curtain down on a career that placed him among the most decorated defenders in recent Super Eagles history. Nigeria have since continued their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a new defensive setup taking shape under the current coaching staff. For Troost-Ekong, however, the connection to the green and white jersey remains undiminished.