'An offer I couldn't turn down' - Troost-Ekong opens up on his move to Saudi club Al-Kholood

Nigeria national teamer William Troost-Ekong has opened up about his surprising transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al-Kholood. 

The move, which came after a triumphant season with PAOK, where he secured his first European league title, caught many football fans off guard.

In an exclusive interview with the Counter Attack Podcast, Troost-Ekong shared insights into his decision-making process. 

Despite his successful spell with PAOK and his important role with the Nigerian national team, Ekong revealed that the idea of moving to Saudi Arabia didn't take place during  the Africa Cup of Nations in January 2024.

"It was something I wasn't thinking about before the AFCON," Ekong admitted. 

"I was playing in Greek PAOK. I was playing European football, winning the league, something I haven't done before and we are aiming for the Champions League and now they finally achieve European League."

He emphasized that his primary focus during the Africa Cup of Nations was on representing Nigeria to the best of his ability. 

However, post-tournament, speculation about his future intensified.

"During the AFCON, I was trying to focus on performing for Nigeria," he explained.

"Surely after that the rumours started and my agent spoke with many clubs from around the world but there was a lot of interest from Saudi Arabia."

Ekong took time to assess his options before making a decision. "The months after I was focused on getting fit again. And when we came together again at the start of the season we spoke about everything then I made my mind up that was something I wanted to do if the offer was right."

The 31-year-old defender expressed that the move was not just about the immediate opportunity but also about securing his future. 

"I got an offer I couldn't turn down. I am 31, now I have think about the big picture.

"I think the Saudi Premier League is competitive, you see the names that are playing there in my first game was against Benzema, Kante, Fabinho, players that are world level." 

"But at the same time everybody talk about the opportunity you have there to guaranty your future to think about my family, kids," Ekong said.

Adeyemi Adewale

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