Maduka Okoye Returns to Udinese Training Ahead of New Season

Posted : 07 August 2026

Udinese have received a major fitness boost after Nigeria international Maduka Okoye returned to full team training following his recovery from a shoulder injury.

The Super Eagles goalkeeper had spent the past few weeks working individually as the Serie A club carefully managed his rehabilitation. The injury ruled him out of all five of Udinese's pre-season friendly matches, raising concerns about his availability for the start of the new campaign.

Okoye's return to group sessions is a timely development for Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic as preparations continue for the 2026/27 season. The club's medical team is expected to monitor his workload closely to ensure he regains full match fitness without risking another setback.

According to reports from Italian outlet Il Gazzettino, via Mondo Udinese, the 26-year-old has now resumed training alongside his teammates. While his recovery is progressing well, Udinese are taking a cautious approach before clearing him for competitive action.

The Italian club hope Okoye will be available either for their Coppa Italia fixture against Padova or for their opening Serie A match of the season against Como. His experience and consistency between the posts are expected to be important as Udinese look to make a strong start to the campaign.

The goalkeeper's return is also encouraging news for Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle ahead of Nigeria's upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau next month.

Okoye recently impressed during Nigeria's international friendlies against Poland and Portugal. He started both matches and produced several important saves despite the Super Eagles conceding three goals across the two games. His performances reinforced his position as one of the country's leading goalkeeping options.

Since joining Udinese, Okoye has continued to establish himself in Serie A with a series of composed displays. His recovery from injury provides both club and country with added confidence as the new football season approaches.

With the opening fixtures drawing closer, Udinese will be hoping the Nigerian shot-stopper can quickly regain full sharpness and return to competitive action. A successful comeback would strengthen Runjaic's squad while giving Chelle another experienced option ahead of Nigeria's crucial international assignments.

Maduka Okoye Returns to Udinese Training Ahead of New Season

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