Stanley Nwabali says Super Eagles return is not his priority

Stanley Nwabali has made rebuilding his club career his immediate priority, putting a return to the Super Eagles behind his efforts to regain regular football. The 30-year-old goalkeeper is back in action after spending six months away from competitive matches.

Nwabali returned to Chippa United and has played three PSL matches this season. His focus is on helping the South African club collect points and begin the campaign strongly, rather than worrying about his place in Nigeria’s squad.

The goalkeeper was Nigeria’s first choice during the Super Eagles’ run to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final. He remained an important member of the team afterwards, but his absence from competitive football allowed Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo to receive opportunities in goal.

His return to Chippa followed discussions with chairman Siviwe “Chippa” Mpengesi after he spent several months on the sidelines following his departure after the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. Nwabali has described the relationship at the club as positive and regards his comeback as a chance to restart his career in a familiar environment.

He made an immediate impact in Chippa’s opening match of the season, earning the Man of the Match award after six saves in a goalless draw with Golden Arrows. His subsequent appearances against Richards Bay and Orlando Pirates have brought greater scrutiny, while competition for the starting position has also come from former South African junior international goalkeeper Dumisani Msibi.

Nwabali’s previous status does not guarantee an automatic return to Nigeria’s starting team. Regular appearances and strong performances at club level now form the clearest route back into the Super Eagles picture, but for the moment his stated objective is to help Chippa succeed rather than pursue an international recall.