Udinese Coach Stands Firm Behind Maduka Okoye After Betting Ban — ‘He’s Still Our Number One’

Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic has expressed full confidence in Maduka Okoye, reaffirming that the Nigerian shot-stopper remains his first-choice goalkeeper despite serving a two-month ban for his involvement in a betting-related scandal.

Okoye was suspended earlier this season after he was accused of intentionally collecting a yellow card during a Serie A clash with Lazio in the 2023/24 campaign — a controversy that momentarily tainted his rising reputation in Italy.

Now free to play again, Okoye has returned to training, with Udinese preparing to face Cremonese in a crucial league tie on Monday night.

While Romanian goalkeeper Răzvan Sava has been impressive in Okoye’s absence, Runjaic insists the Nigerian remains a key part of his plans.

“Okoye has always been our number one, even when he wasn’t available. I’m happy he’s back,” the coach said via the club’s official website.

“He’s trained well and used this period to reflect on himself, emerging stronger. We’re happy to have him back and have faith in him.”

💬 Opinion: A Second Chance Worth Taking — and Watching Closely

There’s something admirable about a coach standing by his player through a storm — and that’s exactly what Kosta Runjaic has done with Maduka Okoye.

The 25-year-old goalkeeper’s time in Italy has been filled with both promise and pressure. From being hailed as one of Africa’s brightest goalkeeping prospects to facing a reputation-staining suspension, Okoye’s journey has been anything but smooth.

But football, like life, often offers second chances, and this could be Okoye’s defining one. Runjaic’s open show of faith might be the confidence boost he needs to rebuild both his form and his image.

Still, it’s not just about saving shots this time — it’s about saving his legacy. Every minute he spends back between the posts will be watched not only by Udinese fans but also by Nigerian supporters who once viewed him as the Super Eagles’ future No. 1.

If Okoye comes back stronger, focused, and clean, his story could easily turn from scandal to redemption — a reminder that resilience, accountability, and trust can rewrite even the darkest chapters in football.