"I Would Be Selfish If I Insist On Playing At AFCON" – Ekong

"I Would Be Selfish If I Insist On Playing At AFCON" – Ekong

Sampson Adedeji

Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong says it would have been selfish of him to push for a place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after recently announcing his retirement from international football, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Ekong, who was included in Nigeria’s 55-man provisional list for the tournament in Morocco, opted to step aside before the final squad selection, insisting it was the right moment to give room to the next generation.

Speaking in an interview with The Standard, the 30-year-old explained his decision.

“Now is the moment for them to claim that,” he said. “The team is ready because we’ve got great leaders. I think there is a natural progression and there is an art in knowing when to step away.”

He admitted that part of him still desired another shot at continental glory.

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

“But the thing that has given me the most joy now is getting messages from young boys saying they want to play for the Super Eagles.”

Ekong retires after a decade of service, earning 83 caps and becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected leaders on and off the pitch.