Former Nigerian goalkeeper Idah Peterside in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa expressed belief that Stanley Nwabali must find a new club ahead of the upcoming season if he hopes to remain relevant in the national team setup.
The Super Eagles shot-stopper has been without a club since leaving Chippa United during the winter transfer window, after agreeing to terminate his contract despite having a few years left on it.
The 29-year-old was dropped by head coach Eric Chelle for last month’s international friendlies against Iran and Jordan and his return appears unlikely until he finds a new team.
“No, I don’t think so”, Idah exclusively told Footy-Africa, when asked if Nwabali’s decision to leave Chippa United at the time was a good one.
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“But sometimes, you don’t really know what goes on at club level—the struggles players face and the difficulties they encounter. His decision to leave was personal. He’s a big player and a very good goalkeeper. We just hope he gets a club before the new season begins”, the former Moroka Swallows goalkeeper added.
Since becoming a free agent, Nwabali has been linked with a move to several clubs since his departure earlier in the year, with links to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and even Kaizer Chiefs in the South African Premier Soccer League.
However, no deal has materialized, leaving him without competitive action for over two months.
“I hear Kaizer Chiefs might sign him, which would be great for him. But he knows he has to play regularly—that’s the most important thing. He’s a professional, and I believe his agents will sort things out so he can get back to playing,” he concluded.
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With just a few months until the summer transfer window, Nwabali’s next move will be crucial for his chances of earning a recall to the Super Eagles.
