Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has shared his thoughts on William Troost-Ekong's unexpected retirement from the Super Eagles, describing the defender's exit as an emotional moment for the team ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Troost-Ekong confirmed his retirement despite being included in Nigeria's 54-man provisional list for the tournament. 

The 32-year-old former captain, who earned 83 caps for the country, stepped away from international football just weeks before the team began its AFCON campaign.

Speaking in an interview with SportyTV's Kelechi, Iwobi expressed sadness over the news, noting that Troost-Ekong played a significant role on and off the pitch.

"Obviously it is a sad one for us because it is a big part of our team. But at the end of the day I wish him well, he is a brother he has helped Nigeria and me," he said. 

"I just hope that the next chapter he has in life goes well for him and we will all support him."

Addressing whether Troost-Ekong's absence would leave a major vacuum in the team, Iwobi admitted that the centre-back had not featured regularly toward the end of his international career but emphasized his leadership impact.

"Of course towards the end of his Nigerian career he wasn't playing as much as probably he would like but he was still a big part of our team, his voice, the way he was leading us and the way he made sure the togetherness in the team was very high and very strong," Iwobi said. 

The former Arsenal man further highlighted Troost-Ekong's influence in the dressing room, describing him as an exemplary leader whose presence will be missed. 

"So he will be very missed, he was a big leader for us and I am sure we have other leaders that can follow in his footsteps but we all wish him well," he added. 

Iwobi, who is one of the senior players in the current squad, also spoke about taking up more leadership responsibilities as Nigeria prepares for AFCON.

"God willing I stay fit. I will be there representing in the AFCON and also we would be fine for Nigeria and Wil as well. He would be there in spirit," he assured. 

Nigeria will compete in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.

The Super Eagles will kick off their campaign on December 23 against Tanzania, before playing Tunisia on December 27 and wrapping up the group stage against Uganda on December 30.

Adeyemi Adewale