"I'm Seeing the Maduka I Want" — Udinese Coach Thrilled with Okoye's Impressive Form

Maduka Okoye has received praise from Kosta Runjaic for his standout form in Serie A. The Udinese manager described him as a key defensive pillar, highlighting his confidence, leadership, and match-winning saves. Okoye’s performances have also boosted his chances of a return to the Super Eagles setup.

Daniel Momodu · May 18, 2026 · 47

Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic has lavished praise on Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, expressing immense satisfaction with the shot-stopper’s exceptional development and current commanding form in Italy's Serie A, All Nigeria Soccer reports.

The 26-year-old international has been a revelation for the Zebras this season, anchoring the backline with a string of authoritative performances that have caught the eye of pundits across Europe. Runjaic highlighted Okoye’s growth not just as a shot-stopper, but as a mature leader who dictates the tempo and stability of the entire defensive unit from his penalty box.

"I'm seeing the Maduka I want," a delighted Runjaic remarked when reviewing the goalkeeper’s recent outings. "He has become a crucial pillar for us. His focus, aerial presence, and ability to make match-winning saves in decisive moments are exactly what we need. He is playing with the kind of confidence and authority that transforms a defense."

Okoye's stellar domestic performances have already earned him a nomination for the Serie A Player of the Month award for May, highlighted by a historic run of clean sheets.

This sustained club form comes at a perfect time for his international career. After a period on the fringes and a previous omission from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad, Okoye's elite displays under Runjaic have made him impossible to ignore. Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly taken note, with the in-form keeper heavily tipped for a prominent recall to the national team setup ahead of Nigeria's crucial upcoming fixtures.