Okoye Nominated For Serie A Player Of The Month

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has been shortlisted for the Serie A Player of the Month award for May 2026, following a series of commanding displays for Udinese.

The 26-year-old has emerged as one of Italy’s top goalkeepers this season, recording 10 clean sheets in 28 league appearances.

That achievement places him in exclusive company among Nigerian keepers in Europe’s major leagues—the last to reach double-digit shutouts in a top-five division was former Super Eagles captain Vincent Enyeama during the 2014/15 campaign.

Okoye’s nomination is built on two clean sheets in Udinese’s May fixtures, back-to-back 2-0 wins over Torino and Cagliari.

His consistency throughout the season has been key to keeping the Friulani safely in mid-table, well clear of relegation trouble.

His rise is especially remarkable given the difficult start to his campaign. Okoye missed six matches following a two-month suspension linked to an alleged betting-related fraud investigation. But since returning in October 2025, he has been Udinese’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, showcasing sharp reflexes and commanding presence in the box.

His improved form has also strengthened his standing in the Super Eagles setup, where he competes with Stanley Nwabali for the number one jersey.

The Player of the Month winner will be announced later in May. Okoye is set to feature in Udinese’s final match against Cremonese on Sunday before the decision is revealed.