Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye has revealed why he chose to represent Nigeria at international level instead of Germany.
Speaking in an interview with SportyTV, the 26-year-old also described his experience in Italy as a positive chapter in his career.
Now in his third season with the Serie A side, Okoye highlighted his comfort and happiness at the club.
Maduka Okoye said, “I’m fine, thank you. No, it’s treating me very, very good. I’m very happy here. It’s my third season already and, yeah, having a great time here.”
The goalkeeper also acknowledged the unwavering support he continues to receive from Nigerian fans despite playing his club football abroad.
He emphasized how much that backing has meant to him throughout his career, from his early days in Germany to his current stint in Italy.
Maduka Okoye said, “Yeah, a lot, a lot. It means a lot that Nigerians always support you, you know. It started in my days in Fortuna Düsseldorf to Rotterdam and now in Udine, and they were always there. They support always from back home, and it means a lot. I’m very grateful and thankful.”
Looking ahead, Okoye outlined his personal ambitions, stressing his desire to continually improve and help his club achieve the best possible finish.
He added, “As an athlete, I want to get the best out of myself. This is my goal. This is my dream. And, with this club, I want to finish the season as high as possible in the best way possible, and then, yeah, we see step by step.”
The former Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper also spoke about his strong ties to Nigeria, crediting his upbringing and family influence for maintaining a deep connection to his heritage.
Maduka Okoye said, “I grew up in Germany, but my father was very, very present in my life, especially in my young and early ages. So, I keep a lot of Nigerian inside of me, and I’m very proud of it.”
Regarding his choice to represent Nigeria on the international stage, Okoye disclosed that it has always been a definitive decision for him, even though he has experience with German youth teams.
He stated, “I always knew I wanted to play for Nigeria, and at that time, I didn’t have another option. Naturally, I participated in German youth selections, but when the opportunity arose for Nigeria, I recognized it as a dream, and I fulfilled it, by God’s grace.”
Okoye has been included in the 23-man roster for the upcoming international friendly matches against Iran and Jordan later this month in Antalya, Turkey.