Nigerian Super Eagles’ former captain William Troost-Ekong embraces Islam
The Shahadah, which is the declaration of faith in Islam, is recited by a person affirming belief in the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad.
Nigerian Super Eagles’ former captain and Al-Ahli defender, William Troost-Ekong, has changed from his old religion and subsequently moves into Islamic faith, after reciting the Shahadah in Doha, Qatar.
The 33-year-old Nigerian international was said to have recited the Islamic testimony of faith in Doha, where he currently plays for Qatar Stars League side Al-Ahli.
The development was reported on Wednesday September 23, 2026 by Qatari press outlet, Al-Arab, while respected Islamic cleric, Dr Muhammad Salah, also shared a video on his verified Facebook account showing Troost-Ekong reciting the Shahadah.
The Shahadah, which is the declaration of faith in Islam, is recited by a person affirming belief in the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad.
Troost-Ekong’s reported conversion comes during his spell in the Gulf region, where he has continued his professional football career after leaving European football.
The defender first moved to the Arab region in the summer of 2024 after signing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Khaleej.
He subsequently moved to Qatar in January 2026, joining Al-Ahli on a one-and-a-half-year contract.
Since joining the Qatari club, Troost-Ekong has featured in 14 matches across all competitions, including one appearance in the current season.
Distinguished Super Eagles Career
Troost-Ekong has enjoyed a distinguished international career with Nigeria, establishing himself as one of the country’s most experienced defenders of the past decade.
He made his senior debut for the Super Eagles in 2015 and went on to earn 83 international caps for Nigeria between 2015 and 2025, scoring eight goals.
One of the defining moments of his international career came at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where he helped Nigeria reach the final.
Despite Nigeria finishing as runners-up, Troost-Ekong was named the tournament’s Best Player, underlining his influence during the competition.
He also represented Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games, further cementing his status as one of the country’s prominent defenders of his generation.
Throughout his international career, Troost-Ekong was known for his leadership, defensive ability and physical presence, and he eventually became captain of the Super Eagles.
His reported decision to embrace Islam has generated interest among football and religious communities, particularly because of his current professional career in the Gulf region.
