Caleb Okoli has made a solid start to life at Leicester City since joining the club during the summer transfer window from Atalanta.
The 23-year-old Italian defender was one of nine new arrivals at the King Power Stadium and has already made 13 appearances for the Foxes. However, he is yet to feature under new manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Despite limited opportunities under the Dutchman, Okoli has impressed whenever called upon, taking significant steps towards realising his dream of playing in the Premier League.
The young defender’s journey reflects his determination and his ability to adapt to the intensity of English football.
Caleb Okoli Marvels at Leicester City’s State-of-the-Art Facilities:
Leicester City may not boast the strongest squad in the Premier League, but their training ground is world-class.
The Seagrave complex, widely regarded as one of the best in football, has left a lasting impression on players and managers alike.
Van Nistelrooy himself has compared the facilities to those at Real Madrid, further underlining their reputation.
Okoli, who came through Atalanta’s Zingonia academy, admitted he was stunned by the quality of Leicester’s facilities when he first arrived.
Speaking to Cronache di Spogliatoio, Okoli said:
“I was shocked when I saw it for the first time. I grew up in Zingonia [Atalanta’s training setup] and until this summer I thought that centres like that were the best.
“But when I arrived here I was speechless, I assure you that we are on another planet. There are 21 pitches and one of them is covered. Then we have two gyms where nothing is missing and also in terms of recovery we have everything, from saunas to swimming pools.”
Okoli is also embracing the challenge of playing in what he describes as the most intense and technically demanding league in the world.
“It’s true what they say, the Premier League is played at a different intensity,” he said.
“Here everyone is used to ‘always going at 3000’ and there is a very high athletic level, but it’s not just that. The technical level is also incredible.”
Looking ahead, Okoli is particularly excited about the prospect of facing Manchester City’s star striker Erling Haaland when the two teams meet later this month.
“Every game I face very strong players, like Haaland, who I can’t wait to mark, and I can never allow myself to let my guard down,” he added.
Okoli’s enthusiasm and commitment suggest he has the potential to thrive in England’s top flight.
