Chippa United’s goalkeeper coach, Sean Louw, has broken his silence on Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s future following the player’s impressive performance in the 2023 AFCON.
Nwabali, who played a crucial role in keeping the Chilli Boys out of the relegation zone during the 2023/24 DStv Premiership season, has attracted interest from both local and international clubs.
Louw revealed that while Nwabali has received numerous verbal offers, the formal bids are yet to be submitted.
The 27-year-old goalkeeper, who made 28 appearances for Chippa and recorded 76 saves, has reportedly attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, England, Belgium, and the MLS. Although the Kaizer Chiefs‘ offer has fallen through, three or four other PSL teams are reportedly still interested in acquiring Nwabali’s services.
STANLEY NWABALI: “DEFINITELY NOT COMING BACK TO CHIPPA”
“On physical hard copy paper, I don’t know how many offers he has received. But verbally, he has around 10 or even 12 offers,” Louw told FARPost. “He is definitely not coming back to Chippa next season.”
Louw praised Nwabali’s development during his time at Chippa United, particularly highlighting his improved footwork and ability to play from the back.
“When he arrived at Chippa, he wasn’t very proficient with his footwork, unable to play from the back,” Louw explained. “However, he has improved his footwork significantly.”
As Nwabali prepares for the next chapter in his career, Louw offers him some parting advice. “I don’t know if he’s going to make a move within South Africa. But my advice to him was, please go overseas,” Louw said.
“I have made him understand that football is a business, and he is a brand. He is not just a player. His brand needs to extend to the other side of the world.”
Nwabali’s departure will undoubtedly leave a void in Chippa United’s squad. However, Louw believes the club is prepared for this change and is optimistic about its future prospects.
This article was written by Sinolwetu Tompela, a freelance journalist reporting from the Eastern Cape province.
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