Ex-Nigeria Keeper Bassey Akpan Blasts Stanley Nwabali Over Chippa United Departure
Former Nigerian international goalkeeper Bassey Akpan has publicly criticized current Super Eagles shot-stopper Stanley Nwabali for his decision to terminate his contract with South African club Chippa United at what he deems an inopportune time. Nwabali, who spent four years with the club, recently confirmed his status as a free agent, expressing a willingness to wait for the right opportunity before selecting his next team.
Akpan Questions the Timing of Nwabali's Exit
Speaking on Brila FM, Akpan, a former Enyimba goalkeeper, argued that the timing of Nwabali's exit is particularly risky. With the transfer window now closed, Akpan believes Nwabali could face months without competitive football, which he warns could severely impact the goalkeeper's match fitness and national team prospects. "This is not the right time for him to terminate his contract," Akpan stated. "The transfer window has just closed, so why leave now? If the decision had been taken before the window opened, he would have had the chance to move and continue playing."
Concerns Over Match Fitness and Super Eagles Standing
Akpan emphasized that goalkeepers rely heavily on regular game time to maintain sharpness, and for a key player like Nwabali, inactivity could have serious consequences. "It's not good for a goalkeeper of his stature to be without a team," he stressed. "For a national team goalkeeper, not playing regularly is a serious concern. The next transfer window is the summer window, around May or June. That means he could be without a club for several months." Reports indicate that Nwabali did not have a confirmed offer before his release, though two clubs are rumored to be interested in the 28-year-old.
Nigerian Football Circles React to the Move
Other voices in Nigerian football have echoed Akpan's concerns. Football expert Bright Akpotabor told Legit.ng that Nwabali's decision is a risky career move. "Leaving Chippa United at this stage is a risky career move for Stanley Nwabali," Akpotabor said. "The transfer window has closed and goalkeepers especially need regular competitive action to stay sharp, training alone can't replace match experience. Going months without playing could dent his form, confidence and even his standing with the Super Eagles unless he finds a club soon."
What Lies Ahead for Nwabali?
The exact reasons behind Nwabali's contract termination remain unclear, but the coming months will be critical for his career trajectory. If he fails to secure a club soon, he risks watching the remainder of the 2025/26 season from the sidelines, potentially weakening his position as Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper. Meanwhile, Chippa United head coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi has clarified that he had no involvement in Nwabali's departure, which was mutually agreed upon last week.
