Why Nwabali returned to Chippa United after five-month break

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has returned to South African club Chippa United five months after stepping away from the team, with his representative revealing that the decision to leave football temporarily was driven by personal grief and the need to prioritise his mental well-being.

Chippa United confirmed the 29-year-old’s return, ending months of speculation over his future after he and the club mutually agreed to terminate his contract in February.

At the time, Nwabali disclosed only that he needed to make a decision that prioritised his happiness, without revealing the circumstances behind his departure.

However, his agent, Mohammed Lawal, has now explained that the goalkeeper took a break from football after losing three close family members within a short period.

According to Lawal, Nwabali’s grandmother died shortly before Nigeria’s 2024 World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic, while his father passed away shortly after the match, forcing him to leave the Super Eagles camp. His mother later died on January 1, 2025.

Lawal said the successive losses had a profound emotional impact on the goalkeeper, prompting those close to him to advise him to step away from football rather than make career decisions while grieving.

He noted that although several clubs expressed interest in signing Nwabali during his absence, including teams in Saudi Arabia, England and elsewhere in Africa, the goalkeeper declined the offers because he was not mentally ready to resume competitive football.

The agent added that Nwabali also sought professional support during his break and received encouragement from Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who maintained regular contact with him throughout the period.

Lawal said Chippa United’s understanding of the goalkeeper’s situation played a major role in his return, noting that the club’s management supported his decision to step away and welcomed him back when he was ready.

According to him, returning to a familiar environment where teammates and club officials understood his circumstances would give Nwabali the best opportunity to rediscover his form.

Nwabali rose to prominence after his impressive performances for Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and is expected to resume his club career with Chippa United as he seeks to rebuild following his time away from the game.