Qatar Stars League side Al Ahli SC have officially confirmed the signing of former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, marking a significant addition to their squad as the club targets a strong finish to the season.
The experienced Nigerian international completed his move from Saudi Arabian outfit Al Kholood, bringing an end to his stint in the Saudi league and opening a new chapter in his professional career.
According to details released by the club, Troost-Ekong has signed a long-term contract that will keep him at Al Ahli SC until June 2028. The deal underlines the club’s confidence in his leadership qualities, experience, and defensive reliability.
The 32-year-old centre-back has been handed his preferred number five jersey, a number closely associated with his commanding presence in defence and leadership roles both at club and international level.
Troost-Ekong arrives in Qatar with vast experience across European and Middle Eastern football. Over the years, he has featured in several top leagues, including England, Italy, the Netherlands, and Saudi Arabia, building a reputation as a disciplined defender known for his aerial strength, positional awareness, and organisational ability.
During his time at Al Kholood, Troost-Ekong made 49 competitive appearances, scoring two goals and playing a key role in the club’s defensive structure. His performances earned praise for consistency and professionalism, qualities that made him a prime target for Al Ahli’s recruitment team.
The move is widely seen as a strategic acquisition for Al Ahli SC as the club seeks stability at the back and greater leadership within the squad. With his international pedigree, Troost-Ekong is expected to provide guidance for younger players while strengthening the team’s overall defensive shape.
At international level, Troost-Ekong remains one of Nigeria’s most recognisable football figures. He captained the Super Eagles for several years and played a vital role in Nigeria’s successful 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign, where the team finished as runners-up. His performances during the tournament earned him widespread acclaim, including recognition as one of the competition’s standout defenders.
Beyond his defensive duties, Troost-Ekong is admired for his composure, communication skills, and ability to organise the backline under pressure. These attributes are expected to align perfectly with Al Ahli’s ambitions as they push for improved league standings and long-term competitiveness.
Club officials believe his arrival will bring not only technical quality but also mental strength and professionalism to the dressing room. In modern football, leadership off the pitch is considered just as valuable as performance on matchday, and Troost-Ekong’s experience is expected to play a key role in that regard.
The Qatar Stars League has continued to attract experienced international players in recent seasons, strengthening its reputation as one of the fastest-growing leagues in the Middle East. Troost-Ekong’s signing further reflects the league’s ambition to combine emerging talent with seasoned professionals capable of raising overall standards.
For Al Ahli SC, the Nigerian defender’s arrival comes at a crucial period of the campaign. The club is aiming to build momentum, improve defensive consistency, and secure positive results in the remaining fixtures of the season.
Supporters have welcomed the announcement, expressing optimism that Troost-Ekong’s presence will help the team maintain discipline at the back and translate performances into points.
While adapting to a new league and environment can present challenges, Troost-Ekong’s familiarity with football culture in the Middle East is expected to ease his transition. His previous experience in Saudi Arabia provides valuable insight into the regional style of play, which emphasises physicality, tactical structure, and disciplined defending.
The defender is expected to join training immediately and could make his debut for Al Ahli SC in the coming league fixtures, pending registration formalities.
As he begins this new journey, Troost-Ekong remains focused on delivering consistent performances and contributing to the club’s ambitions. The move also allows him to maintain match fitness and competitive rhythm ahead of future international assignments with the Super Eagles.
With a contract running until 2028, both player and club appear committed to a long-term partnership built on stability, leadership, and success.
The signing represents yet another milestone in Troost-Ekong’s career, reinforcing his status as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished defenders of his generation.
As Al Ahli SC look ahead to the remainder of the season, the addition of a proven international centre-back could prove decisive in shaping their campaign and setting the foundation for future success.
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