Nigerian defensive midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi is expected to be named the Super Eagles captain ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Wilfred Ndidi, 28, who is currently one of “the captains” of the national team with 71 international caps, is expected to step into the role permanently after William Troost-Ekong confirmed his retirement from international football.

Naija News reports that Troost-Ekong announced his retirement from international football on Thursday, bringing ten years with the national team to a close.

The defender leaves as one of Nigeria’s most respected figures, having played 83 times for the three-time African champions and led the squad through some of its biggest moments.

Ndidi was already viewed as the natural figure to take over leadership. He captained Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs in Morocco last month and will now officially lead the side at the AFCON.

His experience in the dressing room will be vital, with only winger Moses Simon matching his seniority in the current set-up. Simon is expected to serve as vice-captain.

The midfielder who is currently playing for Turkish club Beşiktaş earned his first cap in August 2015 and has since become a mainstay in the national team. He missed the delayed 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire due to injury.

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