Calvin Bassey endorsed by Mamadou Niang as the ideal replacement for William Troost-Ekong in Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of AFCON 2025

Marseille legend Mamadou Niang has endorsed Fulham defender Calvin Bassey as the ideal successor to William Troost-Ekong at the heart of Nigeria’s defence ahead of AFCON 2025.

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Troost-Ekong, captain of the Super Eagles during their run to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final, surprised fans last week by announcing his retirement from international football, shortly after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking on Canal+, Niang praised Bassey’s growth and consistency in the Premier League, highlighting the 24-year-old’s technical and athletic qualities.

“With what I see at Fulham, the impact he has in Premier League matches… he is a talented, tough defender with excellent left-foot distribution and above-average athleticism,” Niang said.

He added that Bassey’s confidence and leadership skills make him a natural fit to fill the void left by Troost-Ekong.

“He is a player I think is the leader of the Nigeria defence, capable of replacing Troost-Ekong, who took this team to the AFCON final. Calvin Bassey is more than capable of succeeding him in that position.”

Also read: Marco Silva Praises Calvin Bassey’s Fulham Work Rate

The endorsement comes at a critical time as Nigeria prepares to regroup for the upcoming African Cup of Nations, seeking a new defensive foundation following the departure of their experienced captain.