Stanley Nwabali of Chippa United during the Betway Premiership 2025/26 match between Chippa United and Amazulu FC at Buffalo City Municipal Stadium, in East London on 01 November 2025 ©Phakamisa Lensman/BackpagePix
Friday Feb 06, 2026. 13:00
Nigerian international goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has left Chippa United by mutual consent.
The shotstopper’s departure was confirmed in a statement released by the club and its chairman Siviwe Mpengesi on Thursday.
“Chippa United Football Club confirms that Stanley Nwabali has formally submitted a request to depart the club. After careful consideration, the club has agreed to grant his release,” the statement reads.
“We would like to sincerely thank Stanley Nwabali for the years of service, commitment, and professionalism he has shown during his time at Chippa United Football Club. His contribution to the club will always be appreciated.
“The club wishes Stanley every success in the next chapter of his career and in all future endeavors.”
The player took to social media, also posting a heartfelt goodbye message on Thursday.
“It was more than a family,” Nwabali wrote.
“To my lovely teammates, dear coaches, amazing fans and great chairman. As I stand here to say farewell, a part of me will always remain with this club. I wish you success and happiness in the seasons ahead. Thank you and farewell. Until we meet again.”
The Chilli Boys acquired Nwabali’s services from Katsina United of the Nigeria Premier Football League in October 2022.
They are struggling this season and sit in 14th place, one point above the relegation zone with three wins, six draws and eight losses.
The now 29-year-old rose to prominence for Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, starting all of the Super Eagles’ games and helping them to the final, where they fell to the host nation.
Nwabali started all of Nigeria’s games at the most recent edition, save for their last group game against Uganda, and was involved in two penalty shootouts en route to claiming the bronze medal.
In addition, he made 10 appearances in the Super Eagles’ 12 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, which ended in a heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the play-off final.
It is unclear what Nwabali’s next step in his career will be.
By Nic Gleeson