Nwabali craves for new challenge as Eagles’ recall delights Okoye
Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, has dropped the biggest hint that he could leave Chippa United this summer. Nwabali burst onto the scene at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in January this year.
The 27-year-old goalkeeper finished the competition with four clean sheets in seven appearances. He also made two penalty saves in the shoot-out against South Africa in the quarterfinals.
This season, Nwabali has kept 11 clean sheets for Chippa United in 26 appearances. Following his impressive performances, Nwabali has become a target for clubs abroad.
Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq, English Championship side Queens Park Rangers, and South African side Kaizer Chiefs have all been linked.
Following the final game of the season – a 2-0 defeat to Orlando Pirate – Nwabali dropped a hint on his future.
“Well, everyone would love to leave because when you are in some position, you need to grow,” said Nwabali.
“Like everyone in my position, I would like to grow more. I’m talking about clubs higher than this [bigger than Chippa United] because I have been giving my all to my club this season.
“I just wish to have another challenge at some other place,” Nwabali said.
Also, Udinese goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, says it’s a “great honour” to represent Nigeria after he received a recall to the national team for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Okoye is among the 23 players listed by Nigeria's head coach, Finidi George, for the upcoming qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.
Okoye has not been called for national team duties since last October when he got the invitation for the international friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique respectively.
The 24-year-old recall stems from the wonderful season he has had for Udinese, helping the club keep their Serie A status with his brilliant performances in goal.
He featured in 22 games across all competitions which is the most he has had since the 2021/2022 campaign and also kept five clean sheets throughout the season.
Speaking after Udinese secured a slim victory over Frosinone, the former Watford shot-stopper revealed his excitement upon returning to the Super Eagles squad.
“I am very happy to return to the national team. It is a great honour for me and my family to play for Nigeria,” Okoye told Udinese official website.
The Super Eagles will host Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday, June 7.
The three-time African champions then travel to Abidjan to keep a date with the Squirrels three days later.