“I Was Speechless”: Leicester City Star Shares His Shock After Summer Signing

Caleb Okoli was one of Leicester City’s nine summer signings during the 2024 transfer window, arriving from Atalanta.

The 23-year-old defender has made 13 appearances for the Foxes but has yet to play under new manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Despite limited opportunities, Okoli has performed admirably when called upon, fulfilling his lifelong dream of playing in England.

Okoli Praises Leicester’s World-Class Facilities

Leicester City may not have the world’s strongest squad, but their training ground is considered among the best globally.

Van Nistelrooy himself has likened Leicester’s Seagrave facilities to those of Real Madrid.

The state-of-the-art setup is a significant draw for players, and Okoli admitted he was astonished by the quality of the facilities upon his arrival.

In an interview with Cronache di Spogliatoio, Okoli shared his amazement:

“I was shocked when I saw it for the first time. I grew up in Zingonia [Atalanta’s training ground] and thought it was the best. But when I arrived here, I was speechless.

I assure you, we are on another planet. There are 21 pitches, one of which is covered.

We also have two fully-equipped gyms and excellent recovery facilities, including saunas and swimming pools.”

Excitement About Premier League Challenges

For many players, including Okoli, the Premier League represents the pinnacle of professional football.

Now living his dream, the Italian defender has noted the league’s unmatched intensity and quality.

“It’s true what they say,” Okoli explained. “The Premier League is played at a different intensity.

Everyone here is used to ‘always going at 3000,’ and the athletic level is extremely high. But it’s not just that—the technical level is also incredible.”

One matchup Okoli eagerly anticipates is against Manchester City’s star striker Erling Haaland.

With Leicester set to face City at the end of December, Okoli hopes to test himself against one of the league’s most prolific forwards.

“Every game, I face very strong players,” Okoli remarked. “Haaland is someone I can’t wait to mark. I know I can never let my guard down.”

Leicester’s December Fixtures

Leicester faces a packed Premier League schedule in December:

Saturday, 14th December: Newcastle vs. Leicester (16:00)

Sunday, 22nd December: Leicester vs. Wolves (15:00)

Thursday, 26th December: Liverpool vs. Leicester (21:00)

Sunday, 29th December: Leicester vs. Manchester City (15:30)

Okoli will look to seize every opportunity to impress and cement his place in the Premier League during these key fixtures.