The omission of Stanley Nwabali from Nigeria’s latest squad announcement has triggered fresh debate among Super Eagles supporters, with many questioning coach Eric Chelle’s decision ahead of the Unity Cup and international friendlies against Portugal and Poland, Soccernet.ng reports.
Chelle on Wednesday unveiled separate squads for the upcoming fixtures, but one notable absentee immediately stood out Stanley Nwabali.
Eric Chelle in the pre match press conference. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Despite establishing himself as Nigeria’s first choice goalkeeper in recent years, the 29-year-old failed to make either squad list, with Chelle instead opting for Maduka Okoye, Francis Uzoho, Arthur Okonkwo and Michael Atata.
The decision marks the second consecutive international window that Nwabali has been overlooked after also missing Nigeria’s March friendlies against Iran and Jordan.
Why Stanley Nwabali missed out
Reports suggest Nwabali’s current club situation may have played a significant role in Chelle’s decision.
The goalkeeper has been without a club since departing South African side Chippa United in February and has not been involved in regular competitive football since then.
With Chelle believed to be prioritising players actively competing at club level, Nwabali’s inactivity may have counted against him.
His absence also coincides with increased competition in Nigeria’s goalkeeping department, particularly following the arrival of Arthur Okonkwo, who received his maiden call-up to the national team after an impressive campaign with Wrexham.
Stanley Nwabali of Nigeria awarded TotalEnergies player of the match during the 2023 Africa cup of nations semifinal between Nigeria and South Africa
Still, Nwabali’s contributions to the Super Eagles remain difficult to ignore.
The Port Harcourt-born shot-stopper has earned 34 caps for Nigeria and registered 14 clean sheets, emerging as one of the national team’s most dependable performers in recent years.
He particularly enhanced his reputation during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a key role in Nigeria’s run to the final. More recently, he helped the Super Eagles secure a bronze medal finish in January after crucial penalty saves against Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
Despite the explanation surrounding his omission, many supporters have openly questioned Chelle’s decision, especially considering Nwabali’s recent importance to the national team.
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Nwabali was not the only big name left out of the Super Eagles setup.
Fullback Ola Aina also missed out after suffering an injury during Nottingham Forest’s Europa League clash against Aston Villa, with the defender yet to return to action.
Kelechi Iheanacho is another surprise omission.
The striker last featured for the Super Eagles during last year’s Unity Cup, but there had been optimism over a possible return following his impressive form with Celtic this season.
Kelechi Iheanacho and teammates celebrate Scottish title win. Photocredit: Getty Images
Iheanacho played an important role in Celtic’s title-winning campaign, scoring five goals in just 13 appearances as the Scottish giants secured the 2025/26 Premiership crown.
Sadiq Umar was also overlooked despite enjoying an encouraging spell with Valencia, scoring six goals this calendar year.
Gift Orban’s omission has equally raised eyebrows. The striker recorded nine goal contributions in Serie A this season despite Hellas Verona’s relegation struggles.
Another player many believed deserved consideration was Yusuf Bamidele. The Ferencvaros forward enjoyed a productive campaign, contributing 15 goals and nine assists in 42 appearances, including six goal involvements in 11 Europa League matches.
Super Eagles call-up for Unity Cup and friendlies
Nigeria will begin their campaign in the Unity Cup with a semifinal clash against Zimbabwe at The Valley in London.
Should Chelle’s side advance, they will meet either Jamaica or India in the final, with the tournament scheduled to run from May 26 to May 30.
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The Super Eagles will then shift focus to high-profile international friendlies against Poland and Portugal on June 3 and June 11 respectively, as Chelle continues preparations for future competitive assignments.
