Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has been given extra responsibilities at Saudi Pro League side Al Kholood following a historic American takeover that has reshaped the club’s future.
The Nigerian defender joined Al Kholood in August 2024 after leaving Greek club PAOK. He was key to the newly promoted side’s survival in their debut Roshn Saudi League season, helping them finish ninth and avoid relegation.
Now 32, Troost-Ekong has been named club captain for the new campaign. His role has also grown off the pitch after U.S.-based Harburg Group became the first foreign owners of a Saudi Pro League team this summer.
Ben Harburg, chairman of the group, praised the Nigerian’s leadership during the transition.
“To have someone like William [Troost-Ekong] on my team is a dream come true,” Harburg told SPL.
“He’s a tremendous human being, a great leader, and he’s played everywhere. In a time of change, his maturity and influence are essential for the club. We talk to him more than anyone else because he stabilises us and balances the dressing room.”
Harburg also revealed plans to use Troost-Ekong’s global appeal, especially among Nigerian fans, to strengthen the club’s identity in the future.
Troost-Ekong has been a key figure for Nigeria since 2015, earning over 80 caps. He was named Player of the Tournament at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after scoring a record five goals for a defender in the competition’s history.
Having previously played for Gent, Bursaspor, Udinese and Watford, the Super Eagles skipper is now seen as one of the most influential African voices in Middle Eastern football.
Al Kholood lost 2-0 to Al Nassr on the opening weekend and will host Damac in Ar Rass tomorrow in their first home match since the takeover.