Ahmed Musa retires from International football

Ahmed Musa has announced his retirement from International football

This brings to an end a remarkable 15-year career with the Super Eagles that saw him become Nigeria’s most capped player and one of the country’s most decorated modern internationals.

The 33-year-old made the announcement in a statement on Wednesday afternoon, reflecting on his journey and the pride of representing Nigeria.

“After a lot of thought, I have decided to retire from international football, bringing to an end almost 15 years with the Super Eagles,” Musa said. “From the very first call-up, wearing the green and white meant everything to me.”

Recalling the early days of his career, he said, “I was just a young boy when the journey started. I remember being invited at the same time to the U-20, U-23, and the Super Eagles. I was young, still learning, and always travelling, but I never complained. Whenever Nigeria called, I showed up. It was never something I had to think twice about.”

Musa highlighted the honour of reaching 111 caps for Nigeria.

“Playing 111 matches for my country is something I hold with deep respect. To become the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football is a great honour. Every time I wore the jersey, I understood the responsibility that came with it.”

He also reflected on career highlights, including winning the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and making history at the FIFA World Cup. Musa became the first Nigerian to score more than once in a single World Cup match, netting against Argentina in 2014, and later became the first Nigerian to score in two World Cups, scoring twice against Iceland in 2018.

“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. That team showed what it meant to play for Nigeria. Scoring at the World Cup, against Argentina and Iceland, are memories I will always carry with me. To score four goals at the World Cup and be Nigeria’s highest goalscorer on that stage is something I am truly grateful for,” he said.

He continued; “As I step away from international football, I do so with peace and gratitude. I know I gave my best. I know the Super Eagles will continue to move forward. And I know that this bond will never be broken. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Thank you, Nigeria. Thank you for everything.”