Nwabali says he is yet to secure new club after Chippa united exit

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has confirmed he is currently without a club after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract with South African side Chippa United, Sport360NG reports.

The 28-year-old made the disclosure during an interview with SABC Metro FM, stressing that no new deal is on the table at the moment.

“To be honest with you, I don’t have a club or a contract in front of me,” Nwabali said. “It was a mutual agreement, one that allows both sides to be at peace. We wish each other well, and I can now focus on the next step of my career.”

Nwabali, who spent four years at Chippa United, described his departure as a difficult but necessary decision, noting that personal fulfilment played a major role.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here, but sometimes you have to move forward as a player. Football is about happiness, and my happiness comes first,” he added.

The goalkeeper recently fell down the pecking order following the return of Dumisani Msibi from international duty, with the latter recording four clean sheets in consecutive league matches. However, Nwabali dismissed claims that the loss of his starting role forced him out of the club, despite having six months left on his contract.

He explained that injury issues prior to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, coupled with discussions held after his return, shaped the eventual decision.

“Before AFCON, I was injured from the Pirates game and was focused on recovering properly so I could return stronger and also represent my country,” Nwabali said. “After coming back from such a big tournament, there was an understanding that I needed some rest.”

Nwabali also emphasised that his relationship with the club’s chairman remained strong throughout the process.

“We spoke openly, like father and son, almost every day. It wasn’t an easy decision, but he felt it might be best for me, and in the end, it was a choice I made myself,” he said.

Meanwhile, speculation continues to link the Super Eagles goalkeeper with a move to Moroccan giants Raja Club Athletic, though no official announcement has been made.