Ahmed Musa has announced his retirement from international football, closing a 15-year career as Nigeria’s most-capped player and one of its most decorated modern stars.
The announcement was made in a statement posted on social media on Wednesday afternoon, where Musa reflected on the honor of representing his country.
After a lot of thought, I have decided to retire from international football, bringing to an end almost 15 years with the Super Eagles,” he said. “From the very first call-up, wearing the green and white meant everything to me.”
Recalling his early days, Musa noted: “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 significance of reaching 111 caps for Nigeria, stating: “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.”
His international career was marked by historic achievements. He was part of the squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and became the first Nigerian to score more than once in a FIFA World Cup match—netting twice against Argentina in 2014—and later the first to score in two separate World Cups, with two goals against Iceland in 2018.
“Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. That team showed what it meant to play for Nigeria,” he said. “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.”
Musa thanked his teammates, coaches, backroom staff, administrators, and Nigerian fans at home and abroad for their unwavering support throughout his career.
The 33-year-old forward steps away with a sense of fulfillment, expressing confidence in the team’s future: “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.”
At club level, Musa returned to Kano Pillars in October 2024 for a third stint. He remains with the four-time Nigerian champions and will take on the role of general manager ahead of the 2025–26 season.
