Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is expected to be released for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after the club's Serie A clash against Napoli on Saturday, December 13.

The 26-year-old was initially expected to join the Super Eagles camp today (Monday, December 8).

However, FIFA has ruled that clubs can keep hold of their players called up for the AFCON until December 15.

Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic has now confirmed that the Super Eagles goalkeeper will not be available after their massive game against Serie A title holders Napoli this weekend.

“We’re considering this issue. After Napoli, we’ll probably no longer have Rui Modesto, Okoye, Bayo, and Zemura, but we’ve known about it for some time,” Runjaic was quoted by the club’s official website.

Okoye is expected to feature in his second Africa Cup of Nations tournament. The former Watford goalkeeper was Nigeria's first choice shot stopper at the 2021 Nations Cup in Cameroon.

WDN