Nigeria: Eric Chelle announces Maduka Okoye's absence

29.09.26 12:00 AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Guinea-Bissau

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Nigeria

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Maduka Okoye is still not with the Super Eagles. Ahead of Nigeria's next fixture, Eric Chelle confirmed the absence of the Udinesegoalkeeper, whose arrival at the camp is still awaited.

Nigeria head coach Éric Chelle explained that the Italian club had asked him to allow Okoye to take part in certain activities related to Udinese.

“His club asked me to allow him to take part in certain club-related activities, and I agreed,” he said.

Okoye was expected to join the squad after obtaining permission to take care of personal matters. But his continued absence forced the coach to provide clarification about his situation.

Read also: Nigeria: Nwabali, Okoye, Okonkwo, three goalkeepers competing for one place in goal

His absence now leaves more room for competition between Stanley Nwabali and Arthur Okonkwo. The two goalkeepers are expected to battle for the starting spot in goal for Nigeria while awaiting Okoye's arrival and Chelle's decisions regarding the pecking order.

The Udinese goalkeeper holds an important place in the Nigeria squad. But until he joins the camp, the coach must prepare for his upcoming fixtures with the goalkeepers currently in the group.

Chelle did not specify the exact nature of the activities Okoye was due to take part in with Udinese. He will now have to manage the situation and determine how to proceed with his absence..

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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