Ahmed Musa has officially announced his retirement from international football, concluding a remarkable 15-year career with the Super Eagles. This announcement, made via social media on Wednesday, marks the end of a journey that has seen him become Nigeria’s most capped player and one of its most celebrated modern internationals.
In his statement, Musa reflected on his pride in representing Nigeria, stating, “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 reminisced about his early days in the national team, recalling how he was called up to the U-20, U-23, and senior national team simultaneously. He emphasized his commitment to the national team, saying, “Whenever Nigeria called, I showed up. It was never something I had to think twice about.
Musa expressed deep respect for his achievement of earning 111 caps for Nigeria, highlighting the significance of becoming the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football. “Every time I wore the jersey, I understood the responsibility that came with it,” he noted.
Throughout his illustrious career, Musa was instrumental in Nigeria’s success, including being part of the squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2013. He also made history as the first Nigerian to score more than once in a FIFA World Cup match, achieving this against Argentina in 2014, and later becoming the first Nigerian to score in two World Cups with two goals against Iceland in 2018. He described these moments as cherished memories, stating, “Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out… Scoring at the World Cup… are memories I will always carry with me.
Musa took the opportunity to thank his teammates, coaches, and the backroom staff for their support throughout his career, as well as the Nigerian fans for their unwavering encouragement.
As he steps away from international football, the 33-year-old expressed his contentment, saying, “I do so with peace and gratitude. I know I gave my best… Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Thank you, Nigeria. Thank you for everything.”
On the club front, Musa returned to Kano Pillars in October 2024 for a third stint and has taken on the role of general manager ahead of the 2025–26 season, continuing his contributions to Nigerian football at the club level.
