William Troost-Ekong is no stranger to leadership, but his role at Al Kholood has taken on new weight after a historic American takeover.
The Super Eagles captain has now been placed at the heart of the Saudi Pro League side’s bold new era after being named club skipper this season.
William Troost-Ekong at the Heart of Al-Kholood’s New Dawn
The Nigeria international joined Al Kholood in August 2024 after a spell with Greek side PAOK.
In his debut campaign, the centre-back was key to helping the newly promoted outfit secure a ninth-place finish in the Roshn Saudi League—an achievement that ensured survival in the competitive top flight.
This season, the 32-year-old has stepped into the captain’s armband, a decision that truly shows his importance both on and off the field.
But the responsibilities have stretched even further after U.S.-based Harburg Group became the first foreign owners in Saudi Arabia’s top tier by acquiring Al Kholood.
Why Al Kholood Turned to Troost-Ekong
For Ben Harburg, chairman of the Harburg Group, Troost-Ekong’s leadership has become central to the transition.
“To have someone like William [Troost-Ekong] on my team is a dream come true,” Harburg told SPL.
“And more importantly, because he’s a tremendous human being.
“He’s a great leader, he’s very mature, he’s seen everything, he’s played everywhere, and, as a club, with the instability and challenge that we’re facing at this handover, he is absolutely essential to that.
“So, we certainly spend more time talking with him than most and asking him – which he’s doing – to play this role as a ballast, to stabilise us and balance us during a really challenging time. That’s the No. 1 thing he provides today is that maturity and leadership in the locker room. In the future, we’re excited to find ways to activate him and engage with his fans in Nigeria and around the world.”
He offers more than just his defensive role. Troost-Ekong has already proven himself as a leader on the biggest stages, with more than 80 Nigeria caps and a Player of the Tournament award at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
His five AFCON goals make him the most prolific defender in the tournament’s history.
A Veteran Voice in Middle Eastern Football
From Gent to Bursaspor, Udinese, Watford, and PAOK, William Troost-Ekong has built a career across Europe’s top leagues.
That experience now places him among the most influential African voices in Middle Eastern football, where his reputation now carries a lot of weight.
However, Al Kholood’s new era began with a setback, a 2-0 defeat to Al Nassr on the opening weekend.
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