‘He took an unnecessary risk’ — Udinese boss criticises Okoye, urges patience with Super Eagles goalkeeper

Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic has called for calm around Maduka Okoye following the Nigerian goalkeeper’s costly mistake against Bologna, insisting the club remains committed to helping him rediscover full confidence after a turbulent spell. 

Okoye, who recently returned from a suspension linked to a betting scandal, endured a difficult outing despite saving a penalty, and his error contributed to Udinese’s 3–0 defeat.

Speaking ahead of their next match, Runjaic admitted he was unhappy with certain aspects of the team’s performance, making it clear that Okoye’s misjudged moment played a major role in shifting momentum in Bologna’s favour. 

The German coach revealed that the 26-year-old had spent weeks without competitive football before returning, which may have impacted his sharpness. He acknowledged Okoye’s effort in training and reiterated that the team is working to eliminate avoidable errors.

“In training, he shows us what he can do, and I remain optimistic,” Runjaic said via Udinese’s official channels. He emphasised that the squad contains many young and recently integrated players still adjusting to the rhythm of Serie A. 

Runjaic added that Okoye “took an unnecessary risk” in the Bologna fixture, a decision that led to Udinese falling two goals behind and ultimately losing control of the match. Still, he underlined the need for patience, stressing that growth takes time and the full potential of the team will become clearer soon. 

He maintained that Udinese must learn to manage difficult periods and approach mistakes as part of a long-term process. “I’m not in a hurry,” he said. “We keep what we have done well and correct the rest.”

Looking ahead to their clash against Parma, the 54-year-old reiterated that Udinese are still building toward a more stable identity after laying essential foundations last season. 

He believes the squad now has a balanced mix of experience and youth, and that consistent hard work will eventually translate into results. The psychological aspect, he noted, remains crucial, as earning points helps validate the collective effort and strengthens belief in the project.

With five matches left before the end of the year, Runjaic has set his sights on picking up as many points as possible, particularly in their three remaining home fixtures. 

“If the players grow, the team grows. Then the points come, the standings improve, and the fans are happy,” he said.

Okoye, who has managed one clean sheet in six games this season and conceded eleven goals, remains under scrutiny.