Chippa United head coach Vusumizi Vilakazi has admitted that the recent departure of Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali definitely comes as a huge blow for the Chilli Boys in their battle for Premier Soccer League survival, Footynaija.com reports.
Nwabali and Chippa United mutually agreed to terminate the contract binding their association and go their separate ways, after the Nigeria international made a personal request to bring an end to his four-year stint at Port Elizabeth.
The South African club released a statement on Thursday, revealing the goalkeeper’s desire for a change of scenery and their decision to grant his request. Chippa also thanked Nwabali for his service, commitment and professionalism throughout his stay before wishing him the best in his future endeavours.
However, Chippa boss Vilakazi could barely hide his disappointment while reacting to the Super Eagles goalkeeper’s departure in a recent interview.
“It is definitely a blow for us, considering what Stanley achieved in Morocco,” Vilakazi said in quotes revealed by Complete Sport. “Obviously, his decision and everything surrounding it did not involve me.
“It was a discussion between him and the chairman [Chippa Mpengesi], and they agreed to part ways. I can only work with players who are within the system. If there is a need to bring in another goalkeeper to increase competition, we will do so.”
Chippa United are currently struggling in the South African top flight with the Chilli Boys sitting in 14th place on a 16-team PSL table and the departure of Nwabali, who was their captain, could eventually prove costly for their hopes of maintaining their top flight status.
