Port Elizabeth, South Africa — Chippa United head coach, Luc Eymael, has confirmed that all is not well between the club and captain Stanley Nwabali, fueling fresh speculation about the Nigerian international’s future. Nwabali, who joined Chippa United from Nigeria’s Katsina United in 2022, quickly rose to prominence with consistent displays that earned him the captain’s armband. His form later secured him a breakthrough with the Super Eagles, where he cemented his place as first-choice goalkeeper during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The 28-year-old has recently been linked with several top clubs in South Africa and abroad. Despite mounting transfer rumours, Nwabali has maintained a professional stance, never publicly pushing for a move away from the Chilli Boys. However, eyebrows were raised on Sunday when the shot-stopper was absent from the matchday squad in Chippa’s 2-1 defeat to Polokwane City. The omission was not injury-related, sparking speculation of deeper issues behind the scenes. Addressing reporters after the game, Eymael admitted the goalkeeper’s absence stemmed from internal matters. “We have to deal with some internal problems,” the Belgian tactician said. “You saw that one important player — Nwabali — was not there today, and it’s a problem we have to sort out. I prefer not to go into details with the media. It’s sad, but these things happen in football.” The coach added that while the situation may open the door for other players to step up, maintaining unity in the squad remains vital for the club’s ambitions this season. Nwabali’s omission comes at a time when his reputation is at its peak, following a string of commanding performances for both club and country. His penalty-saving heroics at AFCON 2023 turned him into a household name in Nigeria and across the continent. With his future now uncertain, fans and analysts alike are closely monitoring whether the fallout at Chippa United will push the in-demand goalkeeper toward a transfer move in the January window.
Eymael Confirms Rift Between Chippa United and Captain Nwabali
