Serie A club Udinese have reportedly removed Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye from its registered players list following an investigation into alleged betting irregularities.
The 25-year-old is under scrutiny for suspicious betting patterns linked to a yellow card he received during Udinese’s 2-1 victory over Lazio on March 11, 2024.
Italian authorities allege unusual gambling activity surrounding the booking, which occurred in the 90th minute for time-wasting. Investigators raided Okoye’s house after betting agency Sisal flagged the incident, claiming its algorithm detected irregular gambling activities associated with the booking.
In connection with the probe, the Prosecutor’s Office in Udine also searched the premises of Diego Giordano, a pizzeria owner whose establishment is frequented by Juventus footballers.
Okoye, a former Watford goalkeeper who faces a potential five-year ban if found guilty, has denied the allegations through his legal representatives, who dismissed the claims as baseless.
In his absence, Udinese has replaced Okoye with newly-signed goalkeeper Egil Selvik in their 25-man Serie A squad. However, the club has not clarified whether this decision is related to the betting allegations or the Nigerian goalkeeper’s season-ending wrist injury.
Despite the controversy, Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic reassured fans about the team’s focus and morale.
“We haven’t talked about it; we’re focused on Como. The atmosphere is still very good; the team spirit is there, and we’re working diligently,” Runjaic stated.
Okoye, who joined Udinese in 2023 from Watford, has made 37 appearances for the Italian club.
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