Ahmed Musa Officially Announces Retirement from International Football

By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi

Ahmed Musa, the former captain of the Super Eagles, has officially declared his retirement from international football, concluding a remarkable career that lasted almost 15 years with the Nigerian national squad.

In an emotional address to the Nigerian public and the Super Eagles community, Musa shared that this decision followed a period of serious contemplation, signaling the end of a journey that started in his youth and evolved into one of the most important careers in Nigerian football.

Musa reminisced about his initial experiences with the national teams, mentioning that he received invitations to join the U-20, U-23, and Super Eagles simultaneously at a young age. He emphasized that despite the challenges and frequent traveling, representing Nigeria was never something he doubted, making it clear that he always responded without reluctance whenever the nation called.

The ex-Leicester City player characterized Nigeria as “always home,” despite the various global locations that football led him to. He departs from the national squad as Nigeria’s player with the most caps, having participated in 111 international games, a feat he regarded as a significant honor and a considerable responsibility.

Among the memorable highlights of his international journey, Musa pointed out Nigeria’s victory at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, describing that team as a true representation of what it means to play for the country. He also fondly recalled his experiences at the FIFA World Cup, where he netted goals against Argentina and Iceland, making him Nigeria’s top scorer in World Cup history with four goals.

Musa further shared that leading the Super Eagles as captain was a pivotal part of his career, stating that wearing the armband instilled in him lessons of responsibility, patience, and the essential nature of prioritizing the team. He remarked that his dedication to Nigeria remained strong even during challenging times and criticism.

“Football provided me with a career, but Nigeria gave me purpose,” Musa expressed, extending his thanks to his teammates, coaches, support staff, administrators, and fans both locally and internationally for their steadfast encouragement throughout the years.

As he prepares to leave international football, Musa mentioned that he does so with a sense of peace and gratitude, assured that he has given his all and that the Super Eagles will continue to progress.

He ended his message with a powerful affirmation of his lasting connection with the national team: “Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.”