Stanley Nwabali is back at Chippa United, and the Nigerian goalkeeper has returned to being an important figure in a team that has changed heavily ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season, Footynaija reports.
The 30-year-old returned to the Gqeberha club on July 12, five months after leaving by mutual agreement. Nwabali had requested an early release in February after helping Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
A move to another club did not happen despite interest from Saudi Arabia, Europe and South Africa’s top clubs. Nwabali was then without competitive football for several months, which cost him his place as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper.
His return has given him an immediate chance to play regularly again. Nwabali started Chippa’s season opener against Lamontville Golden Arrows on August 1 and made six saves in a 0-0 draw.
“It’s nice coming back to where they believe in you and where they place trust in you,” Nwabali said.
“It’s nice to be back and working with the people that I know, my teammates and the management.
“I am happy and excited to be back.”
Chippa have also rebuilt their squad, adding eight new players alongside Nwabali’s return and Goodman Mosele’s permanent move from Orlando Pirates. The new arrivals are Nthuthuko Mlotshwa, Muhammad Carrim, Daba Diakite, Tshepang Makara, Muzomuhle Khanyi, Lebohang Tshabalala, Obakhe Tshaya and Imraan Jones from Highbury FC.
Nwabali believes the younger players have already shown that they can handle the demands of the PSL.
“Playing in this league requires a lot. I am happy that the young players in the team have adapted so quickly,” Nwabali told the Herald.
“Some of them made their PSL debuts against Arrows, and it was clear that they performed admirably.
“I believe the coach is happy and proud of them.
“I believe we have a good mix of young and experienced players on the team, and there is a lot of talent. We’re taking it one game at a time.
“After our game against Arrows, the coach analysed our performance and identified areas for improvement. Throughout the week, we worked to improve the team for our upcoming league games.
“Richards Bay is a good side, but the coach has a strategy for how to approach that game, and I believe we will have a good game on Tuesday.”
Chippa face Richards Bay on August 11 before games against Orlando Pirates, Siwelele FC, Milford FC and Mamelodi Sundowns.
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