Well, that’s the same question we asked when former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peterside Idah suggested that the Nigerian top shot-stopper, Stanley Nwabali, should consider a temporary return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with Rivers United, amid uncertainty about his club future.
Nwabali is currently a free agent after ending his stint with South African side Chippa United earlier this month.
The 29-year-old goalkeeper formally requested to leave the Eastern Cape-based club, and Chippa United confirmed his exit.
“Chippa United Football Club confirms that Stanley Nwabali has formally submitted a request to depart the club. After careful consideration, the club has agreed to grant his release.”
The South African side expressed gratitude for Nwabali’s time at the club:
“We would like to sincerely thank Stanley Nwabali for the years of service, commitment, and professionalism he has shown during his time at Chippa United Football Club. His contribution to the club will always be appreciated.”
Nwabali Open to Local or International Opportunities
Speculation over Nwabali’s next move has intensified, with reports linking him to clubs in South Africa, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and England.
Despite the rumours, the goalkeeper has emphasised patience in making his next career decision.
On the Sports Nights Amplified with Andile Ncube podcast, he stated:
“I can play anywhere I want to play; there is no restriction. I am open to any club, local or international.”
He also addressed the ongoing transfer chatter:
“There are no calls yet. The only calls are from my family and friends and people who are shocked at the news.”
Peterside Idah Urges Nwabali to Join Rivers United
Against this backdrop, Peterside Idah publicly encouraged Nwabali to strengthen Rivers United temporarily.
“Nwabali, come to Rivers United and help our team until you have another team. We need help,” Idah wrote on Facebook.
The Pride of Rivers are currently tied on 41 points with Ikorodu City in the NPFL, despite having played four games fewer, and will obviously need his services even though the club can boast of well over three solid goalkeepers.
However, their performance in continental competitions has been disappointing. The Port Harcourt side has earned just one point from five group matches in the CAF tournament and was recently defeated 7–1 on aggregate by Egyptian giants Pyramids.
For Nwabali, consistent playing time is critical at this point, especially for a goalkeeper who rose to prominence during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
After that outing, he was able to retain his spot—the number one jersey at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, where the Super Eagles finished third.
Obviously, he needs regular matches to maintain form while searching for a better club abroad.
So, could we expect a shocking move to the NPFL side?