Suitors abandon Nwabali

Suitors abandon Nwabali

After all the transfer hype linking Stanley Nwabali to Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, Nigeria goalkeeper remains rooted at Chippa United.

The respected custodian was hot property in the transfer market and frequently made headlines but everything is stagnant now.

Chances of Stanley Nwabali continuing with Chippa United appeared slim as he was a subject of transfer speculation.

The Nigeria international goalkeeper was linked with Soweto giant, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, especially after outstanding performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals.

He was also rumoured to have attracted the interest of Championship side, Queens Park Rangers as well as Saudi outfit Al Ettifaq.

But he still finds himself stuck in Gqeberha and Chippa United assistant coach, Thabo September says they still back him up for a move away from the Chilli Boys.

“We all want Stanley to go to the next level, forward to the bigger things,” September told FARPost.

“That’s why he plays so good, so that he can get a bigger move. From the management, the chairman, and us as coaches and players, we want that to happen.

“But at the moment, he’s here with us, and he’s a professional," added the former SuperSport United star.

"He’s working for that moment, and when that moment happens…He’s being a professional and training well, and if that doesn’t happen, he’s looking forward to playing in the PSL for Chippa United.

“But me as a coach I don’t know if there’s anything on the table. I’m not going to be like everyone else; that’s gonna be like there’s something here and there," he continued.

“On my side, I don’t know anything that’s on the table. But all I want is good things for him, I want the best for Stanley because he deserves it, he has done well.”

Nwabali was said to have been earmarked as a replacement for Itumeleng Khune by Chiefs.

But the Soweto giant has since moved in to sign Rwanda goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwarti and that leaves them with no space for the Nigerian.

However, Orlando Pirates might still pursue him as the club is yet to sign a high-profile goalkeeper following the departure of Siyabonga Mpontshane although they signed Ethan Khel from third-tier side NC Professionals.

With PSL clubs as well as those overseas still involved in transfer business, Nwabali securing a move away from Chippa cannot be ruled out.

He could be harbouring fears of becoming forgotten if he remains at Chippa and might be pushing for a move.