Nigeria international William Troost-Ekong has discussed his unexpected transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Kholood, a move that surprised many fans given his recent success with PAOK.
Troost-Ekong's transfer followed a standout season with PAOK, where he achieved his first European league title. This success made his subsequent move to Saudi Arabia all the more surprising to football enthusiasts.
In an exclusive interview on the Counter Attack Podcast, Troost-Ekong shed light on his decision-making process. He explained that the move to Saudi Arabia was not on his radar during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January 2024.
"I wasn’t considering this move before the AFCON," Troost-Ekong admitted. He highlighted his focus on his achievements with PAOK, including winning the Greek league and setting sights on the Champions League.
Troost-Ekong emphasized that his primary focus during AFCON was representing Nigeria to the best of his abilities. However, after the tournament, speculation about his future grew.
"After the tournament, the rumors began, and my agent had discussions with various clubs worldwide, with significant interest from Saudi Arabia," he said.
The 31-year-old defender took time to evaluate his options before making his final decision. He noted that the move was driven by both immediate opportunities and long-term security. "I received an offer I couldn’t refuse. At 31, I have to consider the bigger picture," Troost-Ekong explained, highlighting the competitive nature of the Saudi Premier League and the opportunity it provided for his future and family.
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