Former Udinese goalkeeper Gigi Turci has challenged Super Eagles number one Maduka Okoye to continue improving his game, insisting the Nigerian still has technical aspects to work on despite establishing himself as the club’s first-choice shot-stopper.
Okoye recently reported for pre-season training with Udinese ahead of the 2026/27 campaign after an impressive season in which he produced a series of crucial saves and kept 10 clean sheets to help the club secure important results in Serie A.
However, the 26-year-old’s performances have not completely won over Turci, who believes there is still room for growth in the Nigerian’s game.
Speaking to Messaggero Veneto, the former Udinese goalkeeper acknowledged Okoye’s physical presence but insisted his technique remains a work in progress.
“He’s physically impressive, but his technique isn’t complete,” Turci said. “Without Sava and Nunziante behind him, we need a second.”
The former shot-stopper added that Okoye must now justify his status as Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper, saying: “Now he has to prove himself.”
Since joining Udinese, Okoye has made steady progress and gradually cemented his place as the club’s preferred goalkeeper. The 2025/26 season represented a significant step forward in his development, with his 10 clean sheets playing a vital role in Udinese’s campaign.
His form has also seen him retain his position as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, with the Super Eagles relying on his shot-stopping abilities as they look to bounce back from their World Cup disappointment.
Despite Turci’s criticism, Okoye is expected to retain his place between the posts for the new season and will have the opportunity to respond to the veteran’s assessment with his performances on the pitch.
The Nigerian international will be determined to prove his doubters wrong as Udinese begin their Serie A campaign, with the added incentive of silencing critics who question whether he has what it takes to be a top-level goalkeeper in Italian football.
Okoye’s development will be closely watched by both Udinese fans and Super Eagles supporters as he enters what could be a defining season in his career.
