'It's football' - Super Eagles star insists he was not affected by failed move to Kaizer Chiefs

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has commented on his unsuccessful transfer from Chippa United this summer.

Following his impressive performance for Nigeria at the 2023 AFCON tournament, he was linked with a summer move to South African Premiership club Kaizer Chiefs.

The 28-year-old replaced Francis Uzoho as Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper, leading the Super Eagles to the final, where they lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast in Abidjan.

Nwabali had an outstanding tournament, keeping four consecutive clean sheets and showcasing his skills during the penalty shootout against South Africa in the semifinals.

These performances highlighted his abilities and fueled speculation about a move to Kaizer Chiefs.

However, the Nigerian goalkeeper ultimately could not secure a move this summer and instead signed a contract extension, becoming the club's captain.

In an interview with iDiski Times, Nwabali shared that he wasn't troubled by the failed transfer speculation, acknowledging it as part of the game.

"I wouldn’t say I was really affected by what happened after last season and after the Afcon because it’s football," he revealed.

"Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t work but as a footballer one thing is for sure is that deals come and deals also crash.

"One thing I know is that even with all this happening you don’t have to lose your value as a soccer player."

The Super Eagles goalkeeper mentioned he had a sense that he might leave the club over the summer, but emphasized that such outcomes won't impact his performance or dedication to the team.

"With everything that happened, I even felt like I was going to leave the club but I’m still with the club so it doesn’t change anything,” he disclosed.

Since his standout performances at the AFCON, Nwabali has continued to shine for both club and country, despite competition from Maduka Okoye, who is making waves at Udinese.

The former Enyimba goalkeeper recorded clean sheets against Benin and Rwanda during the October 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

He is also expected to receive an invitation for the upcoming double-header against Libya later this month.

Adeyemi Adewale

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