William Troost-Ekong Reportedly Embraces Islam After Reciting Shahadah in Qatar

Posted : 24 September 2026

Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has reportedly embraced Islam after reciting the Shahadah in Doha, Qatar. The development was first reported by Qatari newspaper Al-Arab on Wednesday, September 23, and has since been covered by several international media outlets.

A video circulating on social media appears to show Troost-Ekong reciting the two testimonies of faith in Arabic. Muslim scholar Dr Muhammad Salah also shared footage of the Nigerian defender and described him as having embraced Islam.

Al Jazeera also reported that a video posted by Kuwaiti preacher Mansour bin Nasser Al-Khalidi showed Troost-Ekong reciting the Shahadah in Doha. The report said the former Nigeria captain expressed a desire to read more and learn about Islam.

The reports available do not provide details about what influenced Troost-Ekong's decision. Neither the player nor his representatives had publicly explained the reasons behind the reported conversion as of September 24.

Troost-Ekong, 33, currently plays for Qatar Stars League club Al-Ahli in Doha. He joined the club in January 2026 after leaving Saudi Arabian side Al-Kholood, continuing a career that has taken him through several European and Middle Eastern leagues.

The defender enjoyed a distinguished international career with Nigeria. He made his Super Eagles debut in 2015 and earned 83 senior caps before announcing his retirement from international football in December 2025.

Troost-Ekong captained Nigeria during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d'Ivoire. He scored three goals during the tournament, including Nigeria's goal in the final against the hosts, and was named Player of the Tournament.

He also represented Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and several AFCON tournaments. At the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, he was part of the Nigerian team that won the bronze medal.

His club career began in Europe before taking him through the Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, Turkey, Italy, England and Greece. He later moved to Saudi Arabia before continuing his career in Qatar with Al-Ahli.

The reported conversion marks a significant personal development for the former Super Eagles captain. His decision has attracted attention in Qatar and among Nigerian football followers as he continues his professional career with Al-Ahli.

William Troost-Ekong Reportedly Embraces Islam After Reciting Shahadah in Qatar

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