Ahmed Musa Announces Retirement From International Football After 15-Year Super Eagles Career
Nigeria’s most capped international footballer, Ahmed Musa, has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a distinguished 15-year career with the Super Eagles.
The former Super Eagles captain confirmed the decision in a heartfelt message addressed to Nigerians, football fans, and the national team community, reflecting on a journey that began when he was still a teenager receiving simultaneous call-ups to Nigeria’s U-20, U-23, and senior national teams.
111 Caps, A Nigerian Record
During his international career, Ahmed Musa earned 111 caps, making him the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football. He described the achievement as a great honour, emphasizing that every appearance came with a responsibility to give his best, regardless of circumstances.
Musa stated that representing Nigeria was never a decision he hesitated over, noting that wearing the green and white jersey symbolized pride, duty, and national identity.
AFCON 2013 Triumph and World Cup Legacy
Among the defining moments of his international career, Musa highlighted Nigeria’s victory at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations as a landmark achievement. He described the tournament-winning squad as a team that fully embodied what it meant to play for Nigeria.
He also recalled his performances at the FIFA World Cup, particularly his goals against Argentina and Iceland. Musa scored 4 goals across World Cup tournaments, a record that makes him Nigeria’s highest goalscorer at the World Cup.
Leadership as Super Eagles Captain
Another significant chapter of Musa’s career was his tenure as Super Eagles captain. He said wearing the captain’s armband taught him lessons in leadership, patience, and selflessness, stressing that the role was never about authority, but about service.
According to Musa, his responsibility was to support teammates, guide younger players, and defend the honour of the national badge, even during periods of criticism and difficult results.
“Football Gave Me a Career, Nigeria Gave Me Meaning”
Reflecting on his journey, Musa stated that while football gave him a profession, Nigeria gave his career meaning. He expressed gratitude to former teammates, coaches, backroom staff, and football administrators for their trust and support.
He also thanked fans at home and abroad, acknowledging that their encouragement—whether in stadiums or in front of television screens—played a vital role throughout his career.
A Farewell With Peace and Fulfilment
As he steps away from international football, Ahmed Musa said he does so with peace, gratitude, and fulfilment, confident that the Super Eagles will continue to progress.
He concluded by reaffirming his lifelong connection to the national team, declaring:
“Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.”
Musa signed off his message by thanking Nigeria for the opportunity to serve, closing a chapter that stands among the most enduring and impactful careers in Super Eagles history.