Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has been removed from Udinese’s squad list for the remainder of the Serie A season, as the 25-year-old finds himself embroiled in a betting scandal.
The Nigeria international is under investigation for allegedly receiving a yellow card intentionally during Udinese’s 2-1 win over Lazio on March 11, 2024.
In the 90th minute of that match, Okoye was booked for time-wasting—a seemingly routine incident. However, investigators flagged irregular betting patterns tied to the yellow card, raising suspicions of foul play.
A complaint from betting agency Sisal, which used an algorithm to detect anomalies, prompted an investigation by the prosecutor's office in Udine. Authorities have since raided the 25-year-old's residence, as well as that of another suspect, Diego Giordano, a pizzeria owner linked to several footballers.
Udinese act swiftly over Okoye controversy
Following the allegations, Udinese have updated their 25-man squad list, replacing Okoye with Norwegian goalkeeper Egil Selvik.
While the club have not officially linked the exclusion to the betting investigation, the injured goalkeeper is also recovering from wrist surgery, which is expected to keep him sidelined for the remainder of the season.
Serie A regulations allow goalkeepers to be replaced on the list at any point in the season. However, once the transfer window closes, neither Okoye nor Selvik can be listed simultaneously, indicating Udinese may be planning for a long-term absence.
If found guilty, Okoye could face a five-year ban from football, a major blow for the young goalkeeper. The investigation remains ongoing, leaving the Super Eagles shot-stopper in a precarious position both legally and professionally.
