Maduka Okoye Honored as Udinese's Player of the Season for 2025/26

Maduka Okoye Earns Top Award at Udinese

Maduka Okoye, the Super Eagles goalkeeper, has been named Udinese's Player of the Season following a standout 2025/26 Serie A campaign where he kept 10 clean sheets.

The Nigerian international will receive this prestigious recognition at the 26th Galà del Calcio Triveneto in Vicenza on Monday, October 12. Still, it seems unlikely he will attend, as he is expected to be with Udinese in Turin preparing for their Serie A match against Torino.

A Season Marked by Resilience and Performance

Okoye secured his position as Udinese's first-choice goalkeeper throughout the season despite facing an early suspension. This disciplinary action stemmed from allegations of deliberately picking up a yellow card during a previous match against Lazio in 2023/24.

Once his suspension ended, Okoye returned firmly to the starting lineup, showcasing consistent performances and becoming a key figure between the posts.

Strong Club Form Despite National Team Competition

Over 30 league appearances, Okoye achieved 10 shutouts, including an impressive run of three consecutive clean sheets versus Genoa, Como, and AC Milan. His form at Udinese earned him call-ups to Nigeria’s squads for Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Despite these call-ups, Okoye stayed on the bench during those games as Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle preferred Stanley Nwabali from Chippa United. This individual award highlights Okoye’s value at club level while he continues vying for the starting role with the national team.

Future Prospects

Okoye remains under contract with Udinese until the close of the 2027/28 season. This gives him ample opportunity to build on his strong performances in Italy and push harder to secure a regular spot with the Super Eagles.

• Award: Udinese Player of the Season 2025/26
• Clean sheets: 10
• Serie A appearances: 30
• Contract until: End of 2027/28 season
• Upcoming award ceremony: 26th Galà del Calcio Triveneto, October 12, Vicenza