Al-Kholood manager commends William Troost-Ekong following Qatar move

Al-Kholood manager Des Buckingham has described former Nigerian captain William Troost-Ekong as an essential leader both on and off the field—a figure the Saudi Arabian club will deeply miss.

​Troost-Ekong, who joined Al-Kholood from PAOK in the summer of 2024, has completed a move to Qatari side Al Ahli SC during the January transfer window.

Addressing the player’s departure during a press conference, Buckingham admitted that while the Nigerian defender would be missed, the club is already looking to bring in a replacement.

Troost-Ekong was unveiled by Al Ahli SC on Tuesday

“You can’t replace William, and I don’t want to replace him as a player or as a person. There will be someone who comes in to take his place as a player.”

He also lauded Troost-Ekong as the best captain he has ever worked with, noting the significant impact the defender made within the team culture.

“What I mean is, William is definitely the best leader I’ve ever worked with at this football club.

He has been a really important part of helping me get settled at the club and also making sure the things I just talked about with the culture and the environment are taken care of.”

Troost-Ekong was officially unveiled by Al Ahli SC on Tuesday and has been assigned the number 5 jersey.