Troost-Ekong joins Greece’s PAOK FC

William Troost-Ekong, Super Eagles of Nigeria defender, has joined Greece’s PAOK Thessaloniki FC from Watford. 

The transfer was announced on the website of the Greek club on Tuesday.

The Nigerian defender penned a three-year contract that would see him play at the Toumba Stadium until June 2026.

“PAOK announces the acquisition of William Troost-Ekong by transfer from Watford. The Nigerian stopper has signed a contract until June 2026 and will wear the number 15 shirt,” the statement reads.

Welcome to the family, William! #EkongIsHere #PAOK #transfers #FightBack pic.twitter.com/qTwm4DNrru

— PAOK FC (@PAOK_FC) July 4, 2023

“He was born on September 1, 1993, in Haarlem, the Netherlands, to a Nigerian father and a Dutch mother. He took his first footballing steps in Overbos before moving to England to join college. There he first joined the Fulham academies and then moved to Tottenham.

“Ekong sought a new challenge this summer. PAOK convinced him, won the competition, and the Nigerian became a resident of Thessaloniki for the next three years.”

The 29-year-old was on loan at Salernitana, the Italian Serie A side, for six months last season. He played a crucial role as the club escaped relegation in the latter stage of the campaign.

Troost-Ekong joined Watford from Udinese in 2020, leading them to the English Premier League the following year.

Watford, however, suffered relegation after only a season.

The Nigerian played 64 league matches for the club.