William Troost-Ekong has opened up about his transition to life in the Saudi Pro League and revealed how fellow Super Eagles star Odion Ighalo influenced his decision. The 31-year-old defender made the switch from PAOK to Al-Kholood for €2 million after a brief injury-hit season in Greece.
Ekong missed much of the second half of the 2023/24 campaign after tearing his bicep femoris during Nigeria’s AFCON run in Ivory Coast. Despite the setback, he returned to club action and helped Al-Kholood finish ninth in his debut Saudi season.
Speaking in an interview conducted in Ar Rass, Ekong explained that he consulted Ighalo before taking the leap into Middle Eastern football. “Picking Ighalo’s brain made sense,” he said. “He understands the league and culture well. He gave me all the insight I needed.”
Ekong added that his journey has been deeply rewarding so far. “Football has always been a connector for me. It’s helped me settle into different cultures and learn new languages. I’m not fluent in Arabic yet, but that’s a goal I’m working on.”
Beyond football, the former Watford and Udinese player expressed how the experience in Saudi Arabia has enriched him personally. “The people here have been so welcoming—from dinner invites to casual coffee hangouts. That openness helped me adapt quicker.”
He noted that the slower pace of life compared to Europe has also allowed him to pursue off-pitch interests. “It’s given me more time for self-development, business ventures, and growing my charity work.”
Back in Nigeria, Ekong is preparing to host another charity game at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos. His commitment to philanthropy continues to grow, shaped by his diverse experiences both in and outside of football.