Maduka Okoye vows to give everything as Udinese target strong Serie A season

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye says he is ready to give everything to help Udinese achieve their targets during the 2026-27 Serie A campaign.

Okoye begins the new season as Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper after another positive year in Italy. The Nigerian established himself as one of the club’s most important players last season, recording 10 clean sheets in 30 appearances.

With pre-season preparations now complete, the 26-year-old believes Udinese’s squad is focused and fully motivated before the opening fixtures. The players are eager to begin the campaign after several weeks of hard work, and Okoye is confident that the group is ready for the challenges ahead.

The former Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper has developed into a key figure at the Bluenergy Stadium since joining Udinese. He is expected to play a significant part again as the club attempt to improve on their performances from last season.

Okoye’s position at the club has strengthened over the past campaign, with his consistency giving him an important role in Udinese’s plans. His clean-sheet record was a notable contribution during a season in which he became increasingly established in goal.

The goalkeeping department has changed ahead of the new campaign. Edoardo Piana has returned to the club following Alessandro Nunziante’s departure, while experienced goalkeeper Daniele Padelli remains part of the squad.

Okoye believes Udinese have a strong group of goalkeepers and is looking forward to working with both Piana and Padelli as the season gets under way. The changes mean the Nigeria international will be part of a refreshed unit as Udinese prepare for their Serie A fixtures.

Away from the pitch, Okoye has also become one of Nigeria’s most recognisable football personalities. During the summer, he attended high-profile events including Formula One races and fashion-related engagements.

However, the Super Eagles goalkeeper insists those activities have not affected his commitment to football or his responsibilities as a professional player. His immediate focus is on maintaining his place in the Udinese team and helping the club meet its objectives.

The new season will also provide Okoye with an opportunity to strengthen his position with the Nigeria national team. Strong performances for Udinese could see him move ahead of Stanley Nwabali in the race to become the Super Eagles’ number one goalkeeper before the September AFCON 2027 qualifiers.

For now, Okoye’s attention is on Udinese’s campaign. After establishing himself as the club’s preferred goalkeeper and completing preparations for the new season, he will hope to turn his confidence into performances when competitive football begins.