Photo: Wilfred Ndidi
Beşiktaş midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has been appointed the new captain of the Super Eagles, taking over the leadership of Nigeria’s senior men’s national team ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The announcement was confirmed on Friday via the official Super Eagles social media handle, which quoted Ndidi as describing the role as deeply meaningful as Nigeria prepares for the continental tournament.
Ndidi’s first major assignment as captain will be leading the three-time African champions at AFCON 2025, where Nigeria will be aiming to reclaim continental glory.
Speaking to the Super Eagles media team, the former Leicester City midfielder said unity within the squad would be crucial to achieving success in Morocco.
“It’s a huge responsibility, and with the help of the players, I think everything will go smoothly,” Ndidi said.
He added that he has already begun engaging senior members of the team to build cohesion and shared purpose.
“I’ve had a conversation with a couple of players, just some of the older players, to help them understand why we’re here. We also need the support of the staff. We’re all in this together,” he said.
Ndidi’s appointment follows the retirement of William Troost-Ekong from international football and the stepping aside of long-time captain Ahmed Musa. Musa has not featured for the national team in recent months and was an unused substitute at the 2023 AFCON.
Troost-Ekong’s decision to retire came as a surprise to many fans, especially as he was included in the Super Eagles’ preliminary squad for AFCON 2025 before announcing his exit from the national team ahead of the final squad list.
Nigeria has been drawn in Group C of the 2025 AFCON alongside Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia. The Super Eagles will open their campaign on December 23.
