Chippa United head coach Luc Eymael has confirmed that Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has fallen out with the South African club.
Nwabali, who joined Chippa United from Katsina United in 2022, has been captain and first-choice goalkeeper since his arrival, also establishing himself as Nigeria’s number one during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The 29-year-old was absent from the matchday squad in Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Polokwane, prompting speculation about his future.
Eymael admitted there were “internal issues” with the goalkeeper, saying:
“We have to deal with some internal issues that are happening. You saw that one important player [Nwabali] was not there today. It’s a problem we have to solve.”
The Belgian coach stopped short of explaining the exact reasons for Nwabali’s omission, adding:
“I cannot talk about that; I prefer not to talk about it to the media. First, I think we have to solve the problem internally.”
Stanley Nwabali played for the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the 2023 AFCON. Photo Credit: Getty Images
He went on to describe the situation as “sad”, but noted that such fallouts are not unusual in football.
“It’s sad, but it’s like that sometimes. It happens in soccer.”
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Eymael also stressed that the absence of a key player creates opportunities for others in the squad.
“But okay, it gives a chance to other guys. They have to take also the chance.”
And he reminded the players of the need for unity at Chippa United.
“It’s important that everybody wants to play for Chippa United and to go in the same direction. It’s the only solution to take this team up, and I think we are capable to do it.”
Nwabali has played 6 games this season in the South African Premier Soccer League.
Nwabali has been linked with Raja Casablanca and other clubs in recent months but has remained at Chippa United.
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The Chilli Boys face Sekhukhune next, and it remains unclear if the Super Eagles star will return to the squad.
