The Udine Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an inquiry into Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye for alleged unlawful betting practices.
If found guilty, the Nigerian international faces a minimum four-year ban from all competitions.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, betting agency Sisal flagged unusual gambling patterns involving bets placed on Okoye receiving a yellow card during Udinese’s Serie A away match against Lazio in March 2024.
The goalkeeper was actually booked for time-wasting in the 64th minute, and this has become the focus of the investigation.
The investigation has been expanded to include Diego Giordano, a 40-year-old pizzeria owner in Udine.
According to the Gazzetta, Giordano is suspected of coordinating the alleged betting operation. It is claimed that a verbal arrangement was reached at his establishment and then carried out at a Sisal betting store in Udine, just days before the Lazio-Udinese match.
In response to the allegations, Okoye’s legal team has firmly denied any wrongdoing.
“The accusations are baseless and lack substantial evidence,” they stated, emphasising their confidence in clearing the goalkeeper’s name.
Currently sidelined following wrist surgery, Okoye’s absence has prompted Udinese to sign Norwegian goalkeeper Egil Selvik as a precautionary replacement.
The investigation remains ongoing, with both Okoye and Giordano potentially facing serious consequences if the allegations are proven.
