In an interview with the Italian Football Podcast, Udinese custodian and Nigerian international Maduka Okoye revealed that he is eager to compete in the Champions League and the World Cup. He also shared details about his stint in Serie A. Juventus emblem official content is loading See what the international player from Nigeria said.
Okoye on Serie A title, Udinese experience and working with Alexis Sanchez
How does Okoye see the Serie A title going?
“From the way it’s going Juve with Thiago Motta looks quite strong, but for sure Inter will also be a top candidate.”
Okoye is really pleased to have Alexis Sanchez as a new teammate.
“Unbelievable, I remember when he walked in the changing room the first time. I was sitting on my chair, I sit right at the beginning, I looked up and stood right up and shook his hand like I mean it is Alexis Sanchez. He is a legend of the game, not just a club legend at Udinese, but in the whole game.
“It’s a privilege and Im proud to be able to work with a legend like Alexis Sanchez.
Okoye explained that his favourite goalkeeper growing up played his football in San Siro.
“Always Nelson Dida and never anyone else [who was my childhood idol.] I’ve never met him but I’ve had contact with him through other people, this makes me very happy.
“I grew up watching Dida, standing in goal thinking I am Dida, he has given me lots of motivation, for me he is the number 1 goalkeeper in the world.
“Maybe I need to watch what I say [laughs], but I always supported Dida’s Milan.”
Picking the best goalkeeper from the current crop is easier said than done, though.
“Very difficult to say. The way I learn, when I study build up play I study Ter Stegen. When i study high exist I study Ederson. When I study saves I study Courtois. In different parts there are different goalkeepers.
“Difficult to say who is the best, but the most complete is Alisson, Neuer..I don’t want to answer this question [laughs].”
Opening up on his time with Udinese thus far, Okoyed said: “My first year was a little bit turbulent because I arrived at Udine from Watford. Didn’t play a lot at Watford, was recovering from a shoulder surgery. Luckily the Pozzo family gave me a chance here at Udinese.”
GET MORE NEWS ON
FAFATALLTIMESPORTS.COM
Nigerian and Udinese custodian Okoye on his hopes for the 2026 World Cup, the Serie A championship, and the UCL
