Nigeria international William Troost-Ekong has become the 43rd member of Common Goal – a movement powered by players and managers donating one percent of their salary to high impact football for good organisations around the world.
40 players and managers have allocated over €400,000 to football for good organisations in six months since starting with Manchester United and Spain midfielder Juan Mata. At the 2018 World Cup in Russia this summer, Common Goal looks likely to be represented by at least eight players.
The Bursaspor defender played a key role as Nigeria U23 team won the Rio Olympics football bronze medal – a feat which got him nominated for the 2017 African Player of the Year prize. He also played in all games as the Super Eagles qualified for the 2018 Fifa World Cup Russia.
“Winning the bronze medal for Nigeria at the 2016 Olympics and qualifying for the World Cup were both massive moments for me,” said Troost-Ekong.
“However, I’m hoping to outdo both of those this summer at the World Cup.”
The 24-year-old considers his obligation to Common Goal as a decisive career moment.
“I’m aware that I’m a role model for children and football fans, and having travelled the world I’ve seen the impact that we have on people’s lives. It’s our responsibility, as players, to use that in a positive way.”
Troost-Ekong’s commitment to Common Goal comes just as the movement prepares to invest funds generated by player pledges for the first time. Next month will see €400,000 allocated to 27 football for good organisations tackling some of the toughest social issues of our time - ranging from HIV/AIDS, to gender inequality and youth unemployment.
“We are delighted that William is joining Common Goal. Not just because he is a fantastic player, but because he is a fantastic person,” said Common Goal founder, Jurgen Griesbeck.
“William and all of our players recognise the importance of aligning with a shared vision and using their status as footballers, to make the world a better place.”
With new players from all levels of football joining the movement every week, Common Goal is racing towards the 100 player mark in 2018.
In the coming weeks , Common Goal is set to announce how football fans and other stakeholders in the game can participate in the biggest movement in football.
