AFCON 2023 MVP Troost-Ekong returns to Europe after watching Finidi George's Super Eagles fail

Super Eagles' defender William Troost-Ekong | Imago

AFCON 2023 MVP Troost-Ekong returns to Europe after watching Finidi George's Super Eagles fail

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:45 - 22.06.2024

Super Eagles skipper at the AFCON 2023 William Troost-Ekong has returned to his base to begin training with his teammates.

Super Eagles defender and MVP at the AFCON 2023 William Troost-Ekong has returned to his club PAOK in Greece after a busy stint in his homeland of Nigeria, Pulse Sports can reveal.

The 30-year-old Nigeria captain, who led his side to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) last month, took to social media to share snaps of himself training with his teammates in Thessaloniki.

Troost-Ekong returns to Europe

Troost-Ekong had been in Nigeria where he launched his very own foundation, and even played in a friendly match, before watching his national team drop crucial points at home to South Africa in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

'BACK TO BUSINESS,' the former Tottenham man proudly announced on his Facebook page, as he gets set to resume his club duties after his heroics for the Super Eagles.

Sabinus and William Troost-Ekong during the game in Uyo.
Sabinus and William Troost-Ekong during the game in Uyo.

The towering defender put in a series of commanding displays for Nigeria at AFCON 2023, leading them to the final where they were ultimately defeated by hosts Côte d'Ivoire.

Troost-Ekong's impressive performances saw him named the tournament's Most Valuable Player, despite playing through the pain of an injury for much of the competition.

William Troost-Ekong in training with PAOK.
William Troost-Ekong in training with PAOK. (Photo Credit: Troost-Ekong/FB)

The former Watford man would later undergo surgery after the tournament, meaning he missed the remainder of the Greek Superliga season with PAOK.

But now, the inspirational captain is back with his club side, determined to bounce back stronger than ever as he targets more success both at domestic and international levels.

Fans will be happy to see Troost-Ekong back in action, with the defender's leadership and warrior-like displays making him a fans' favourite both in Nigeria and at PAOK.

The road to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico continues for the Super Eagles, and Troost-Ekong will be vital if they are to book their place at the prestigious tournament.

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