Where are the offers? Kaizer Chiefs-linked Stanley Nwabali left in limbo after Chippa exit
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, seen here in action for Nigeria, has not received any offers for his services since leaving Chippa United.
Image: Issouf Sanogo/AFP
Nigeria international Stanley Nwabali is still waiting for his telephone to ring after he departed Chippa United midway through the Betway Premiership season.
The 29-year-old Nigerian has been heavily linked with Kaizer Chiefs in recent years, but a move to Naturena has not materialised.
Nabali joined Chippa United in 2022, and it was in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations where his reputation soared after a number of standout performances for his country. His form for the Super Eagles continued into last year’s AFCON in Morocco.
As one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in Africa, Nwabali would have expected multiple offers from all over the continent. According to reports, Steve Barker’s Simba FC in Tanzania were keen on his services prior to his exit from Chippa.
But up until now, nothing.
“I can play anywhere I want to play, there is no restriction,” Nigeria’s number 1 said when speaking to Andile Ncube on Sports Nights Amplified.
“I am open to any club, local or international.
“There are no calls yet. The only calls are from my family and friends and people who are shocked at the news.”
Former Moroka Swallows and Super Eagles goalkeeper Idah Peterside has urged Nwabali to consider going back home to Nigeria to play to help Rivers United, who are in a very tight title race that involves five other clubs.
“Nwabali come to Rivers United and help our team until you have another team. we need help,” said Peterside, who is now a pastor based in Gauteng.
For now, one of Africa’s most accomplished goalkeepers remains on standby – available, experienced and still waiting for the right opportunity. Whether that call comes from South Africa, elsewhere on the continent or back home in Nigeria, Nwabali’s next move will say plenty about how the market truly values a proven number one.
IOL Sport