Maduka Okoye seen with Cardi B in Milan amid Super Eagles camp absence
Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was filmed in Milan, Italy, with American rapper Cardi B, a video that circulated on social media and drew sharp criticism from fans and journalists. The sighting comes while Okoye remains absent from the national team camp in Ikot-Ekpene, where Coach Eric Chelle has summoned 24 players for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Fans and commentators question Okoye’s commitment, noting he is the only invited player yet to report while 23 teammates trained on Tuesday. Chelle had relied on Okoye as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during Stanley Nwabali’s absence, and his recent friendlies against Poland and Portugal showed strong form for Udinese. His absence raises concerns about squad harmony and readiness for crucial qualifiers.
Okoye’s camp absence contrasts with his club consistency at Udinese, where he has been a regular starter. The video does not clarify his reasons for missing camp, leaving speculation about personal matters or miscommunication. Supporters must weigh his recent club performances against his national team duty. Will Okoye’s Milan detour cost him the number-one goalkeeper spot, or should fans give him the benefit of doubt until Chelle clarifies the situation?