Troost-Ekong joins Saudi Arabia’s Al-Kholood FC

William Troost-Ekong, Super Eagles captain, has joined Saudi Arabia’s Al-Kholood FC from PAOK Thessaloniki FC in Greece.

The transfer was announced on the Arabian club’s X account on Friday.

According to Al-Kholood, the 30-year-old defender will play for the club “in the 2024-2025 Saudi Pro League competitions”.

Ekong’s move to the Arabian Peninsula was confirmed a few hours after he posted a heartfelt farewell on social media to PAOK Thessaloniki FC.

The Eagles captain thanked the fans, management and his teammate at the Greek club for making his brief stay “amazing”.

He had only joined the team in July 2023 on a three-year contract.

“Dear PAOK, after an amazing year and season in Thessaloniki, I want to thank everyone for the opportunity to share and be part of those moments with you,” the farewell reads.

“I want to thank the president, club staff, medical team, General Lucescu, assistants and especially my teammates who have become my family, for the belief and hard work that resulted in an unforgettable championship and special European nights.

“To the fans, thank you for the support through difficult times. Toumba is something special, and now I understand what MONO PAOK means. I wish everyone another successful season and I will continue to follow PAOK. All the best.”

During his lone season with PAOK, Ekong led Nigeria to a silver medal-winning campaign at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire. He was named the competition’s best player after scoring three goals.