Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has highlighted his admiration for Victor Osimhen, emphasizing the striker’s unique influence on the team while also reflecting on his own journey as a professional footballer in Italy.
Speaking during a joint interview organized by Udinese Calcio and Lega Serie A as part of the “A Day with a Professional Football Player” program, Okoye offered fans an intimate look at the life of an elite footballer, sharing insights from training routines, personal growth, and interactions across European football.
On his experience at Udinese, the 24-year-old Nigerian shot-stopper described the environment as ideal for his development.
“I feel great here; it’s the perfect place for football. We’re lucky; we have an incredible training center. When I step onto the pitch, I feel something strong; I don’t know how to explain it.” he said.
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Okoye also spoke warmly about adapting to life in Italy, noting the cultural and personal significance of living abroad.
“I want to stay in Italy; I love it. I love the language, the people. When I was little, I thought of this as a dream, and it still is,” he added.
Beyond Italy, Okoye revealed his fascination with football across Europe, citing Germany and England as key influences on his approach to the game. He follows teams like Fortuna Düsseldorf, Bayer Leverkusen, and Mönchengladbach, appreciating the way youth development is prioritized abroad.
“I watch a lot of football; besides Serie A, I like the Bundesliga and the Premier League. I support Fortuna Düsseldorf, Bayer Leverkusen, and Mönchengladbach. They have incredible youth facilities; even under 15, you live like a pro. There are no second teams there; you have to make the leap from the Under-19s to the first team,” he explained.
Turning to his international teammate, Okoye made a point to underscore Osimhen’s exceptional qualities on and off the pitch. Reflecting on shared moments in football, including swapping jerseys with opponents, he singled out the Nigerian forward.
“Then I have Osimhen’s shirt; he’s incredibly strong. Quality aside, he brings an energy to the pitch that no one else brings. He’s a special player.”
His praise comes as Osimhen continues to recover from the injury he suffered against Liverpool FC in the UEFA Champions League, a setback that has left a noticeable gap in the Super Eagles lineup.
Okoye’s comments not only reaffirm the striker’s pivotal role for Nigeria but also offer fans a glimpse into the mindset of one of the country’s rising stars, combining personal ambition with deep respect for his teammates as the national team gears up for its friendly clash against Iran.
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