“Nwabali’s Head Became Too Big At Chippa”

Nigeria international goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had become increasingly difficult to manage at Chippa United, a situation that worsened following his return from the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, ultimately leading to his departure, Sportswire has been informed.

Nwabali terminated his contract with the Chilli Boys earlier this week after returning from AFCON, where he helped Nigeria secure a bronze medal. According to sources, the 29-year-old became unsettled at the club, repeatedly pushing for a move, which eventually led to Chippa United agreeing to part ways with him.

He did not feature in any matches after the Betway Premiership resumed following the AFCON break.

In any case, it had become clear that Nwabali was unlikely to remain at the club beyond the current campaign, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season.

Nwabali left Chippa United having made 76 appearances across all competitions, recording 25 clean sheets and conceding 85 goals.

Chilli Boyz coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi, whose side were knocked out of the Nedbank Cup round of 32 by Durban City on penalties at Chatsworth Stadium on Friday, admitted that managing Nwabali after AFCON would have been challenging.

“It is definitely a blow for us, considering what Stanley achieved in Morocco,” said Vilakazi.

“Obviously, his decision and everything surrounding it did not involve me. It was a discussion between him and the chairman [Chippa Mpengesi], and they agreed to part ways.

“I can only work with players who are within the system. If there is a need to bring in another goalkeeper to increase competition, we will do so.”

Following Nwabali’s exit, Vilakazi has placed his trust in Dumisani Msibi, who has also been handed the captain’s armband.

Despite their Nedbank Cup exit, Chippa had gone four league matches unbeaten prior to the defeat, winning their last two fixtures, a run that has helped lift them away from the bottom of the table.

The Chilli Boys currently sit 14th in the Betway Premiership standings with 15 points from 17 matches.

While Nwabali was away with Nigeria at AFCON, Vilakazi believes the break came at an ideal time for his team.

“It was not easy,” Vilakazi admitted.

“We had three matches in 10 days, which was not enough time to implement our philosophy or build chemistry among the players.

“I was happy when the AFCON break came because that’s when we went into a mini-camp to properly align our game.

“I could see a lot of improvement there, and we are seeing the results now. After the camp, we beat Orbit College and Durban City.

“I think we are on the right track, and we just need to keep digging deep and working even harder.”