Stanley Nwabali could be on the move this summer, according to Chippa United head coach Thabo September, who has admitted the club may part ways with key players in the upcoming transfer window. The Nigerian goalkeeper, who has been in fine form since joining the South African outfit in 2022, is attracting interest from clubs abroad.
Nwabali earned widespread attention following his standout performances for Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Though heavily linked with a move last summer, he instead opted to sign a new three-year deal and was also named captain of Chippa United.
However, his long-term stay may now be in doubt. Coach September revealed that the club is preparing for player departures, stating the need to sell top players and invest in youth to ensure long-term stability.
“We will lose some, but there’s definitely the core we will keep,” he told . “It’s football—when you want to make your team better, then you sell your better players and invest in younger players and try to be stable.”
Nwabali joined the Chilli Boys from the Nigeria Premier Football League in 2022 and has since established himself as one of the league’s standout goalkeepers.
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Editorial
We’ve watched Stanley Nwabali’s rise with immense pride and if the signs are anything to go by, his time in South Africa may be nearing its natural conclusion. From relative obscurity in the NPFL to captaining Chippa United and starring for the Super Eagles, Nwabali’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
It’s only natural that clubs from higher-profile leagues have begun circling. Goalkeepers of his quality and composure don’t come around often, and his performances at the Africa Cup of Nations proved that he belongs on a bigger stage. What’s impressive is how he’s handled the pressure opting to stay loyal to Chippa when others may have jumped ship. That decision earned him the armband, respect, and more minutes to grow.
But football is a game of timing. If now is the moment for a move, we believe it should be embraced not resisted. Chippa United also recognise this. Coach September’s words signal a club that understands its place in the football ecosystem develop, sell, and reinvest. It’s smart business, and it gives Nwabali the platform to elevate his career further.
Where he lands next matters. He needs a team that trusts in his shot-stopping instincts and leadership, one that sees him as more than just a temporary solution. Whether it’s Europe, North Africa, or Asia, we’re confident Nwabali will deliver.
He has already done Nigeria proud. Now, the next chapter beckons and we’ll be cheering every step of the way.
Did You Know?
- Stanley Nwabali made his international debut for Nigeria in 2021 but rose to prominence during the 2023 AFCON.
- He previously played for Go Round FC and Enyimba before moving to Chippa United.
- Chippa United was founded in 2010 and quickly rose through the South African football tiers.
- The club’s nickname, “Chilli Boys,” originates from their roots in the Eastern Cape, a region known for its spicy cuisine.
- South Africa’s Premier Soccer League has become a popular destination for top NPFL talents due to its competitive structure and exposure.
