Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has confirmed he is currently a free agent following his mutual exit from South African side Chippa United and has declared that he is open to joining any club, whether locally or abroad, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
The 29 year old shot-stopper ended his four-year spell with the Chilli Boys after requesting his release during Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign. Nwabali said his focus is on finding the right project rather than rushing into a move.
Nwabali has made it clear that there are no restrictions on where he could sign next and that he is open to opportunities across Africa, Europe, or the Middle East. “I can play anywhere I want to play there is no restriction,” he said, emphasising that his happiness and fit with the next club will be key.
Despite speculation linking him with several clubs such as Kaizer Chiefs in South Africa, Moroccan giants Raja Club Athletic, Saudi side Al-Ettifaq and English Championship outfit Queens Park Rangers, Nwabali stressed that none of those links have yet developed into formal offers.
He also acknowledged that he does not currently have a contract in place and is prepared to wait for the right opportunity, insisting that moving to a new club should align with his long-term career ambitions.
Editorial
Stanley Nwabali’s decision to leave Chippa United without a new club lined up is a bold career move and highlights his ambition to compete at higher levels. As one of Nigeria’s top goalkeepers, his availability on the free agent market presents an intriguing prospect for clubs looking to bolster their goalkeeping options. The fact that he is open to both local and international moves reflects his desire to find a platform where he can continue to develop and contribute meaningfully on the pitch.
For Nigerian football fans, watching Nwabali navigate this transitional phase will be compelling. His performances for the Super Eagles, particularly at AFCON tournaments where he gained acclaim for his penalty saving exploits, have firmly established him among the country’s elite. A move to a competitive league in Europe or the Middle East could further raise his profile and offer a chance to test himself against higher level competition.
At the same time, his openness to opportunities within Africa suggests he remains grounded and aware of the value of consistent playing time. Whatever direction his career now takes, Nwabali’s next club choice will be important not just for his development, but also for his hopes of maintaining his status as Nigeria’s number one goalkeeper. Patience and strategic decision-making will be key in this next chapter of his football journey.
Did You Know?
- Stanley Nwabali is currently without a club after mutually terminating his contract with Chippa United in February 2026.
- The 29 year old shot-stopper has been linked with South African side Kaizer Chiefs, Moroccan club Raja Club Athletic, Saudi Pro League’s Al-Ettifaq and English Championship club Queens Park Rangers, though no formal offers have been made yet.
- Nwabali requested his release from Chippa United while on duty with the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
- The Nigerian goalkeeper rose to prominence with standout penalty-saving displays at AFCON tournaments, including helping Nigeria secure third place in 2025.
- Nwabali previously played in the NPFL with clubs including Katsina United before moving to Chippa United in 2022.
