Nigerian goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke, in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa, has said the Super Eagles will miss the leadership of William Troost-Ekong at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. However, he believes the defender has earned the right to end his international career on his own terms.
Ekong shocked fans when he announced his retirement from international football after being named in Nigeria’s provisional 54-man list by Coach Eric Chelle for the upcoming AFCON.
The defender had earlier lost his place in Chelle’s squad to 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers playoff. Although the Brentford youngster will miss the AFCON due to a knee injury, Ekong was also not guaranteed playing time.
Ilechukwu sends heartfelt encomium as Troost-Ekong ends Super Eagles career
Olorunleke expressed surprise at the timing of Ekong’s decision but praised the centre-back’s impact on the team.
“Yeah, well, everyone has the right to make their own decisions,” he exclusively told Footy-Africa. “And I must say, in all honesty, that during the period I spent with him in the national team, he proved to be someone who genuinely cared for everyone around him, regardless of status. He was a great leader—any day, any time.”
With Ekong now retired, and Benjamin Fredrick ruled out of the AFCON, Head Coach Eric Chelle is left with only Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Chidozie Awaziem as the available centre-backs. This has raised questions about the timing of Ekong’s retirement.
“It might not seem right to some people, but like I said, he has every right to his decision,” Olorunleke added. “Taking such a bold step now means he feels this is the best time for him, and I think we should respect and accept that.”
Olorunleke admitted that the team will miss Ekong’s presence at the tournament.
“He will definitely be missed, but I also believe that whoever takes up his mantle will deliver and will have the full support of the rest of the team.”
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Ojo Olorunleke and Troost-Ekong helped Nigeria win the silver medal at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
Ekong made 83 appearances for Nigeria and scored eight goals. He featured in five major international tournaments, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
