Morocco 2025: Super Eagles Choose Ndidi as New Captain

Posted : 20 December 2025

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have unanimously chosen Beşiktaş of Turkey midfielder Wilfred Ndidi as the new captain of the team.

Ndidi described the role as a huge responsibility, one he is eager to embrace alongside his teammates as preparations intensify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The midfielder previously served as deputy captain to retired defender William Troost-Ekong and has already worn the armband in recent fixtures. Ndidi captained Nigeria in World Cup playoff matches against Gabon and DR Congo, as well as during World Cup qualifiers against the Benin Republic.

The international retirements of William Troost-Ekong and, more recently, Ahmed Musa, have now paved the way for Ndidi to assume full responsibility as team captain. The midfielder expressed confidence that the transition would be seamless with collective support from the squad.

“It’s a huge responsibility, and with the help of the players, I think everything will go smoothly,” Ndidi said.

He stressed the importance of unity and leadership within the group as preparations for AFCON continue.

“I’ve had conversations with a couple of players, some of the older ones, trying to make them understand the reason why we are here. I also need the support from the staff; we are all in this together. We’ve had discussions on the task ahead. It’s important we’re all on the same page.”

Reflecting on the influence of Troost-Ekong, Ndidi paid glowing tribute to the former captain’s leadership in the dressing room.

“He’s a great leader. He speaks a lot for the team, he stands for the team, and he tries to take everything in for the team.
I admire him a lot—how outspoken he is. I think he’s someone everyone in the team looks up to.”

Ndidi also revealed that Troost-Ekong has continued to offer guidance even after stepping away from international football.

“He’s an amazing guy; I’ve learnt a lot from him. We spoke a couple of weeks ago and he gave me some advice. I feel like he’s still part of the team, and he’s going to be missed.”

The Super Eagles head into AFCON with renewed determination after missing out on qualification for the World Cup for the second consecutive time, following a penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the playoff final. For Ndidi, the continental tournament represents an opportunity for redemption.

“It was sad missing out on the World Cup. This is another opportunity for us to correct the wrongs, put smiles on the faces of Nigerians, and make the country proud once again. It’s not going to be an easy task, but we’re really up for it. We know the challenge ahead and we look forward to enjoying it together.”

Morocco 2025: Super Eagles Choose Ndidi as New Captain

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