Nigeria’s most capped international footballer, Ahmed Musa, has announced his retirement from the Super Eagles after a distinguished 15-year career. The former captain bid farewell in a heartfelt message to the nation, reflecting on a journey that began with simultaneous call-ups to various national youth and senior teams.

Musa emphasized that representing Nigeria was always a choice made with pride and a deep sense of responsibility. He described the national team’s green and white jersey as a symbol of his commitment and dedication to his country’s footballing aspirations.

With 111 appearances, Musa retires as Nigeria’s most capped player, a milestone he described as a profound honor. He stated that each match brought a significant duty to perform at his best, irrespective of the prevailing circumstances or challenges faced by the team.

Key highlights of Musa’s international tenure include Nigeria’s victory at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, a moment he identified as a defining achievement. He also fondly recalled his goal-scoring exploits at the FIFA World Cup, particularly his memorable strikes against Argentina and Iceland, which established him as Nigeria’s leading scorer on the global stage.

As captain, Musa learned invaluable lessons in leadership, patience, and selflessness. He viewed his role as one of supporting teammates, mentoring emerging talents, and upholding the national team’s honor, even amidst public criticism and scrutiny.

Musa expressed profound gratitude to former teammates, coaches, backroom staff, and administrators for their unwavering trust and support throughout his career. He also extended his thanks to fans, both domestically and internationally, whose encouragement served as a constant source of motivation.

Stepping away from international football, Musa conveyed a sense of peace and fulfillment, expressing confidence in the future progression of the Super Eagles. He concluded with a powerful affirmation of his enduring connection to the national team, stating, “Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.”

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