Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has dismissed claims that his retirement from international football was the result of pressure or fallout with football authorities, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
https://x.com/WTroostEkong/status/1997026274569867639?t=XhB4twI_jmqQi4ZIthgPHQ&s=19
Responding to a post on X suggesting he was forced out due to his strong stance during the players’ boycott of the Congo World Cup playoff tie, Troost-Ekong firmly denied the allegation.
“Not true! My own choice/decision and on my own terms. No one ever asked or tried to force me out. If anything, the opposite when I shared my decision,” he wrote.
The defender, who recently ended a decade-long international career, added that he continues to support the Super Eagles fully as they prepare for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
“I wish the team all the best and support them together with all Nigerians for the upcoming AFCON to go all the way,” he said.
Troost-Ekong announced his retirement from international duty on Thursday, a decision that, while not entirely unexpected, raised questions due to its timing—just days before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
His clarification aims to dispel speculation that there was more behind his exit than his official statement indicated.
Uche Dozie