By Dorcas Francis Koji
Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has set his sights on a strong 2026/27 campaign, promising to give everything to help Udinese achieve their targets in the new Serie A season.
Okoye enters the campaign as Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper after another impressive season in Italy, where he continued to establish himself as a key figure for the club.
The 26-year-old kept 10 clean sheets in 30 appearances last season and will now look to build on that form as Udinese begin another Serie A campaign.
Speaking about the team’s preparations, Okoye said the squad was eager to get the competitive season underway after several weeks of intensive pre-season training.
“We’re ready. We’ve worked so hard over the past few weeks, and we’re all pumped up for the start of the season,” Okoye said, in comments reported by Tuttoudinese.
“We have our goals, and we want to try to achieve them. Personally, I want to give everything for Udinese, for the team, and for our fans.”
Udinese have also made changes to their goalkeeping department ahead of the new season.
Edoardo Piana has returned to the club following Alessandro Nunziante’s departure, while experienced goalkeeper Daniele Padelli remains part of the squad.
Okoye welcomed the competition within the goalkeeping unit and praised both of his teammates.
“We’re in good hands. Piana is a young goalkeeper and has great talent. Then we have Padelli, who brings a lot of quality but, above all, immense experience. I’m excited to see how the boys develop,” he said.
The Nigerian will also be hoping his performances at club level can strengthen his claim for the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper position.
With Nigeria preparing for their September 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures, Okoye faces competition from Stanley Nwabali as the battle for the national team’s number one jersey continues.
The Udinese goalkeeper has also attracted considerable attention away from the pitch in recent months, making appearances at high-profile events, including Formula One races and fashion engagements.
Despite his growing profile, Okoye has maintained that his off-field activities remain separate from his football responsibilities.
His immediate priority is now to reproduce his best form between the posts and help Udinese achieve their objectives throughout the 2026/27 season.
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