Maduka Okoye discloses rationale for AFCON 2025 absence

Udinese shot-stopper Maduka Okoye has officially clarified the circumstances surrounding his decision to decline an invitation to join the Super Eagles squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Morocco.

Okoye’s name was a conspicuous omission from Nigeria’s final roster for the prestigious tournament. The 26-year-old explained that he deliberately opted to bypass the AFCON to prioritise recapturing his peak physical condition following an extensive hiatus from high-level competitive football.

Maduka Okoye on the 2025 AFCON Hiatus

In a detailed conversation with German sports publication Kicker, Okoye further noted that it was of equal importance for him to demonstrate loyalty and repay Udinese for their unwavering support throughout his rehabilitation journey.

“Since I was not positioned as Nigeria’s primary first-choice goalkeeper, I believed it was more strategic to remain at Udinese, refine my individual form, and simultaneously show deep appreciation to the club for standing by me during such a challenging period.”

Okoye has subsequently returned to the national team fold and is currently integrated with the squad as they undergo preparations for their upcoming international friendly fixtures in Turkey.