Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has once again made headlines for the wrong reasons, as reports from Italy reveal his latest off-field transgression.
Accordintg to Italian media, the 25-year-old, who was named in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, was caught driving an unregistered vehicle without a driver’s licence or insurance.
Authorities fined Okoye for the offence, adding to his growing list of recent controversies.
This incident is the latest in a turbulent year for Okoye, who has been involved in multiple controversies.
Maduka Okoye’s troubles off the pitch
The Udinese shot-stopper was recently linked to a betting scandal, where he allegedly placed bets on receiving a yellow card during a match against Lazio in March 2024.
He received a booking for time-wasting in the 64th minute of the match, which ended 2-1 in Udinese’s favour.
The Udine Prosecutor’s Office is currently investigating irregular betting patterns linked to the incident.
Despite pleading his innocence, the scandal continues to cast a shadow over his career.
In September 2024, Okoye’s personal life also made headlines when his Dutch model partner, Jelicia Westhoff, accused him of disrespecting their relationship and her family.
Westhoff briefly called him out on social media before retracting her statements and apologising.
While there were unverified allegations of emotional and physical abuse, Okoye strongly denied the claims.
With these off-field issues piling up, Okoye’s focus and discipline have come under scrutiny.
With his return to the national team, Okoye, who has not played any game this year will look to put this latest issue behind him
As Nigeria prepares for crucial World Cup qualifiers, the question remains: Can he put his troubles behind him and prove himself on the pitch?
