Goalkeeper Maduka Emilio Okoye, of the Super Eagles and Udinese national team, expressed his amazement at having the opportunity to train with former Arsenal winger Alexis Sanchez, according to Soccernet.ng. The 25-year-old helped Udinese avoid relegation last season with a run of strong performances, and he eventually rose to the position of first choice custodian for the team.

This summer, Sanchez, a former forward for Barcelona and Inter Milan, signed a two-year contract to become a member of the Udine club for the second time. From 2007 to 2011, he was a player with the Italian club.When Okoye talked about having Alexis Sanchez as a teammate, he described it as an incredible sensation.

“I was seated on my chair at the beginning when he first entered the changing room, I think. I looked up, got to my feet, and shook his hand as if he were actually Alexis Sanchez.

He is a legend in the game—not just at the Udinese club, but throughout the entire game.

The Nigerian custodian stated, “It’s a privilege and I’m proud to be able to work with a legend like Alexis Sanchez,” according to statements made public by Siempre Inter.

In order to help the Nigerian national team earn a spot in the AFCON 2025 competition, Okoye is now serving on the international roster.

Stanley Nwabali was selected to start for the Super Eagles against the Republic of Benin at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo despite Okoye’s outstanding performances.