Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has become one of Nigeria’s most reliable defenders over the years.
From representing the Netherlands at under-19 and under-20 youth level to captaining Nigeria in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Troost-Ekong’s career has been one of transformation and steady rise to leadership.
In this piece, Footynaija.com takes you through everything you need to know about the experienced Super Eagles centre-back.
Biography
William Paul Troost-Ekong was born on September 1, 1993, in Haarlem, Netherlands. His father is Nigerian, from Akwa Ibom State, while his mother is Dutch. Although born and raised in the Netherlands, Troost-Ekong chose to represent Nigeria at the senior international level in 2015.
The 31-year-old defender started his football education at Fulham’s academy before moving to Tottenham Hotspur’s youth system in England. After a brief spell with Groningen and FC Dordrecht in the Netherlands, he embarked on a professional journey that has taken him across Europe and beyond.
He currently plays for Saudi Pro League club Al-Kholood, having joined them in August 2024 after a spell with PAOK Thessaloniki in Greece.
Career Stats
Troost-Ekong has become known for his solid defensive performances, excellent leadership, and reliability at the back. Throughout his career, he has played in several leagues and competitions, gaining valuable experience at both club and international levels.
FC Groningen – 2 appearances (0G, 0A)
FC Dordrecht – 34 appearances (0G, 0A)
KAA Gent – 8 appearances (0G, 0A)
FK Haugesund (loan) – 41 appearances (4G, 2A)
Bursaspor – 32 appearances (3G, 0A)
Udinese – 66 appearances (0G, 0A)
Watford – 68 appearances (2G, 0A)
Salernitana (loan) – 9 appearances (1G, 0A)
PAOK Thessaloniki – 24 appearances (1G, 1A)
Al-Kholood – 25 appearances (2G, 1A)
Nigeria – 71 appearances (7G, 1A)
Current Stats
Troost-Ekong is currently playing for Al-Kholood in Saudi Arabia. After joining the club in August 2024, he has become a key part of their defense. As of April 2025, he has made 25 appearances for the club, and his leadership and defensive qualities remain integral parts of the team’s progress.
Salary
Troost-Ekong currently enjoys the highest salary of his career at Al-Kholood Club in Saudi Arabia. For the 2024-2025 season, he is reportedly earning €4,528,766 annually, which translates to about €94,349 per week.
Net Worth and Market Value
From multiple reports, Troost-Ekong’s net worth is estimated to be at least €4 million, with his football salary being the main contributor to his wealth net worth.
His market value, according to Transfermarkt, stands at €1.80 million. These values reflect his consistent career performances, smart career moves, and current position in Saudi football.
Wife, Daughter, Family
Troost-Ekong is married to his long-time girlfriend, Molly, whom he tied the knot with in October 2021. Together, the couple has couple has three kids. He often shares glimpses of his family life on social media, with adorable posts featuring his wife and children.
Troost-Ekong Transfer News
Troost-Ekong’s move to newly-promoted Saudi Arabian club Al-Kholood in August 2024 was a major one in his career. Despite interest from other clubs, including a potential return to European football, he chose to take on a new challenge in Saudi Arabia.
FC 25 Rating
In EA SPORTS FC 25, Troost-Ekong has been given a solid rating of 72. His stats reflect his strong defensive abilities and leadership on the field.
Some of his in-game stats include:
Defending 72
Interceptions 73
Heading Accuracy 75
Standing Tackle 73
Sliding Tackle 71
Pace 58
Acceleration 51
Sprint Speed 63
Physicality 77
Jumping 80
Strength 84
Stamina 65
Aggression 76