Former national team captain William Troost-Ekong has called for a more structured and long-term approach to football development in Nigeria following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles endured a disappointing qualifying campaign marred by inconsistency and instability, with multiple coaching changes disrupting any real sense of cohesion within the squad.
Under the guidance of Jose Peseiro and later Finidi George, Nigeria struggled to get points on the board, failing to record a single victory in their opening four matches in Group C after posting three draws and one defeat.
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The appointment of current head coach Eric Chelle brought a measure of stability to the team, and the Super Eagles showed signs of improvement, including wins over Rwanda (twice), Zimbabwe and Benin Republic to finish second in their qualification group.
That second place finish earned them another shot via the CAF World Cup playoffs but the Super Eagles ultimately fell short, losing to DR Congo in a penalty shootout in the final to miss out on a place at the tournament.
Troost-Ekong, believes the setback should serve as a wake-up call, urging Nigerian football’s governing body to prioritize long-term planning and development rather than short-term fixes.
“You have to think about what’s best for the country and the next generation. There will be changes, especially after big moments like this,” the former Watford defender told beIN SPORTS.
“However, I think we have to have a serious look at the structure we have in place and really prepare for long-term success.
“When you look at nations that have done well from the continent, they have put the right structures in place for 10 to 15 years, rather than relying solely on talent. We need a clear long-term vision.
“If you go to Morocco and you see the facilities that they’ve built there, and how they’ve progressed in every age group… a lot of those players have been together from U-17, U-19, U-20.
“What we have now seen with Nigeria is maybe we miss that. We need something with longer vision and hopefully that’s something that can be implemented soon.”
Troost-Ekong announced his sudden retirement from international football just before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations but the 32-year-old central defender remains fully active for his club Al-Ahli where he’s quickly become a key player since joining from Saudi Pro League rivals Al Kholood in the winter transfer window.
