Stanley Nwabali
Nigeria international goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has dismissed reports linking him with a possible return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), as he continues to consider his next career move following his departure from South African club Chippa United.
The 29-year-old shot stopper has been without a club since February after mutually parting ways with the Eastern Cape-based side, having requested an exit from the club.
Amid growing speculation and calls from some quarters, including former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peterside Idah, urging him to consider a short-term return to the NPFL, Nwabali insisted his focus remains on opportunities outside West Africa, particularly in more competitive and financially rewarding leagues.
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According to him, players from the region are often motivated to seek moves to Europe, South Africa, and North African leagues due to better structure, exposure, and financial stability.
“In West Africa, our leagues are not as good. We want to go to Europe, we want to come to South Africa, we want to go to Morocco,” he said.
Nwabali also questioned the logic of leaving well-structured leagues, noting that improved pay, sponsorship, and competitiveness play a major role in players’ decisions.
He further addressed ongoing transfer rumours, including links to Kaizer Chiefs, describing them as speculation rather than concrete negotiations.
“So, it’s rumours everywhere… it’s not a bad idea, but it’s a rumour,” he said.
Despite concerns over how his club situation could affect his Super Eagles chances, Nwabali maintained that he is not under pressure and remains open to opportunities across the globe.
“I’m not worried… anywhere that welcomes me well, I can play,” he added.
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