Former Kaizer Chiefs and Nigeria’s Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has commented on Stanley Nwabali’s departure from Chippa United, questioning the timing of the move.
On Thursday, 5 February, Nwabali and Chippa United ended a union that started in 2022. According to Transfermarkt, Nwabali made 76 appearances for the Chilli Boys.
Moreover, Chippa United gave him a platform to be seen and appreciated in Nigeria, as he went on to earn Nigeria’s Super Eagles first-choice place.
Nwabali’s reputation drew interest from European clubs, with Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca also said to be interested. His departure leaves Chippa with a significant void to fill.
However, his countryman, also a former Chippa United goalkeeper, Akpeyi, has questioned the timing of Nwabali’s move.
Akpeyi told FARPost he is worried the drastic decision could affect his progress with the Super Eagles ahead of the March FIFA international break.
AKPEYI QUESTIONS THE TIMING OF NWABALI’S EXIT
“It’s just that the timing of Nwabali leaving Chippa is something I’m not sure about. Was that a decision from him or from his agent, because the window is closed? You can’t really sign for any team for now, except maybe they had this done before the window closed,” Akpeyi told FARPost.
“Or they’re only putting it into the media space now. Otherwise, there’s going to be a FIFA break soon, the national team is going to be engaged, and as number one of the Nigerian national team, he’s obviously going to be needed to participate.”
AKPEYI IS WORRIED ABOUT NWABALI
Akpeyi is worried that Nwabali might miss out on the next Super Eagles matches if he remains without a club. Since returning from the 2025 AFCON, Nwabali had been playing second fiddle to Dumisani Msibi.
“But also, you want to be game-ready, game-fit, for you to be able to participate in those games. But so far, things have been working well for him, so that might not be the case. He certainly remains in the frame for national team selection, regardless of his current playing status.
“I truly believe things will fall into place for him; he is in the prime of his goalkeeping career. At this level, you don’t just sign for any club. He deserves a move to a side that is not only bigger and more prestigious but also more financially stable. Given his pedigree, he has earned that,” added Akpeyi.
The 29-year-old goalkeeper’s impressive AFCON performance has likely sparked interest from other clubs. Now, it’s uncertain whether he will stay in South Africa or move elsewhere.
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