Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong recently made headlines with his move from Greek champions PAOK to Saudi Pro League side Al-Kholood.
The 31-year-old defender, known for his strong performances, especially during the AFCON 2023, was a sought-after player but chose a surprising path by signing with Al-Kholood last month.
He opened up about the reasons behind his decision, highlighting the significant impact of the lucrative offer he received from Saudi Arabia.
Troost-Ekong shared his thoughts on the move during an interview on the Counter Attack Podcast, saying, “I got an offer I couldn’t turn down. I am 31, now I have to think about the big picture.”
The Nigerian international emphasized the importance of securing his financial future as he enters the latter stages of his career.
He noted that such opportunities do not come often, especially for players nearing their mid-thirties, and he felt it was the right time to prioritize long-term security.
While some fans may question the level of competition in the Saudi Pro League, Troost-Ekong defended his decision by pointing out the presence of high-caliber players in the league.
“I think the Saudi Premier League is competitive, you see the names that are playing there… players that are world level,” he explained, referring to stars like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Fabinho, who have also made the switch to Saudi clubs.
Beyond the financial aspect, Troost-Ekong also highlighted his desire to provide for his family and ensure a stable future.
He stated, “Everybody talks about the opportunity you have there to guarantee your future, to think about my family, kids.” This personal motivation played a crucial role in his decision to join Al-Kholood.
Since his arrival, Troost-Ekong has made two appearances for Al-Kholood, although both matches ended in defeats.
