The Captain's Column: Troost-Ekong on Nigeria's future & a fan moment to cherish

For the 2025-26 season, the Saudi Pro League has partnered with none other than Al Kholood captain William Troost-Ekong to bring you a behind-the-curtain account of life in the Roshn Saudi League.

After three brilliant entries thus far, we're delighted to bring you the latest instalment of The Captain’s Column, where Troost-Ekong gives his thoughts on the Nigeria national team as he announces his retirement from international football, and his principal role in Al Kholood's rapid development.

November was a month that tested our character in every possible way. We went into the international break with the disappointment of our loss against Al Qadsiah still fresh.

Moments like that always sting, especially when we know what we are capable of. But football teaches you humility, resilience, and the importance of responding - not reacting.

Using hurt to grow stronger

The international window took me back into the green and white of Nigeria for the World Cup play-offs - an intense and emotional period that reminded me of the weight and purpose of my role.

Before our match against Gabon, the team stood together and made a unified statement demanding respect for all Nigerian players. It was a moment of solidarity, leadership, and dignity.

Our stance was met with a positive resolution that will serve not only the Super Eagles but all Nigerian national teams moving forward.

We followed that with a convincing win over Gabon, a performance that showed our focus amid external noise. The final against DR Congo was a battle that pushed both sides to their limits.

After extra-time, penalties separated us and ended our World Cup dream - a painful moment for everyone involved. But within that disappointment lies invaluable experience.

The next generation that was with us - young, talented and hungry - will learn from this moment. These are the experiences that shape players, build leaders, and sharpen minds for the challenges ahead.

With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations approaching this month, this group will be stronger, wiser, and ready to write their own story.

Troost-Ekong: The Captain's Column

1st in our season-long collab with Al Kholood skipper

History on twin fronts

Returning to club football, losing the derby against Al Hazem was another tough moment. Our stadium was full, vibrating with energy, the whole of Ar Rass buzzing with anticipation.

It was a special night, which made the result even harder to take. But this game doesn’t allow you to stay down for long.

And we didn’t. We responded with a historic performance. Our win against Al Khaleej in the quarter-finals brought Al Kholood to the King’s Cup semi-final for the first time in the club’s history.

It’s an achievement that reflects the spirit within this team. It was a statement of who we are becoming: a group that pushes through adversity and stands tall together.

Sharing Aleen's delight

Beyond the results, what truly stood out this month was the growing connection between the players, the club, and our supporters.

That bond became even more special thanks to a young fan named Aleen. She walked out with me as a mascot for her first-ever Al Kholood and, indeed football, match.

I promised her my shirt, but after the game I couldn’t find her. A few days later, she surprised me at the training ground with her mum. She met the team, shared her excitement, and finally received the shirt I had promised.

Moments like that remind me why we love this sport. The beauty of football lies in how it brings people together - across generations, backgrounds, and emotions. It unites us in joy, in pain, and in hope.

Family time, then refocus

As we now have the early December break, I’m looking forward to spending valuable time with my family and kids. It’s time that always grounds me, recharges me, and inevitably fuels the motivation needed for what will be a busy and demanding end to 2025.

As we move into the next chapter, our mission remains simple: keep building, keep believing, and keep fighting for results.