AFCON 2025: Udinese to Release Okoye on December 14

 Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic has confirmed that goalkeeper Maduka Okoye will be released for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Saturday, December 14.

FIFA announced earlier this week that clubs are now permitted to release players by December 15—one week before the tournament kicks off. The initial release date had been set for December 8.

Okoye is expected to be included in Nigeria’s final squad for AFCON 2025 by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle. The shot-stopper will officially depart for international duty after Udinese’s Serie A fixture against Napoli on December 14.

Speaking via the club’s official website, Runjaic confirmed the club’s readiness for the player’s departure.
“We’re considering this issue. After the Napoli match, we will probably no longer have Rui Modesto, Okoye, Bayo, and Zemura, but we’ve been aware of this for some time,” he said.

The coach also gave an update on squad availability ahead of Udinese’s clash with Genoa.
“Kamara won’t be available against Genoa; perhaps he’ll return for the Napoli game. We are evaluating who will play on the wings, but this is something that will fully take effect after the Napoli match. For the Genoa match, everyone except Atta and Kamara is available.”