Chippa United turn to returning goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to lead reshaped squad

Stanley Nwabali’s return to Chippa United is being viewed as more than a solution between the posts, with the Nigeria goalkeeper expected to help lead a squad that includes eight new signings.

The 30-year-old rejoined the Gqeberha club after previously leaving in early February. Nwabali had been with Chippa United since 2022 and made 76 appearances before requesting a departure, which the club accepted.

He was without a club before returning for the new season and made his comeback in Chippa United’s opening Betway Premiership fixture against Golden Arrows. The match finished goalless.

Nwabali is also expected to feature in Tuesday’s league meeting with Richards Bay, which kicks off at 19:30.

“It’s nice coming back to where they believe in you and where they place trust in you,” Nwabali said.

“It’s nice to be back and working with the people that I know, my teammates and the management. I am happy and excited to be back.”

Chippa United confirmed the arrival of eight new players on their Facebook page before the match against Golden Arrows.

Alongside Nwabali’s return and Goodman Mosele’s permanent transfer from Orlando Pirates, the club have brought in Nthuthuko Mlotshwa, Muhammad Carrim, Daba Diakite, Tshepang Makara, Muzomuhle Khanyi, Lebohang Tshabalala, Obakhe Tshaya and Imraan Jones of Highbury FC.

The extensive recruitment has left Nwabali with an important role as Chippa United work to establish a new team. The goalkeeper believes the younger members of the squad have made a positive early impression, including players who made their PSL debuts against Golden Arrows.

“Playing in this league requires a lot. I am happy that the young players in the team have adapted so quickly,” Nwabali said.

“Some of them made their PSL debuts against Arrows, and it was clear that they performed admirably. I believe the coach is happy and proud of them.

“I believe we have a good mix of young and experienced players on the team, and there is a lot of talent.

“We’re taking it one game at a time. After our game against Arrows, the coach analysed our performance and identified areas for improvement.

“Throughout the week, we worked to improve the team for our upcoming league games. Richards Bay is a good side, but the coach has a strategy for how to approach that game, and I believe we will have a good game on Tuesday.”

Chippa United’s first home fixture of the season will be played against the Natal Rich Boys at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto.

The club are unable to use Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium or Buffalo City Stadium during August because both grounds are undergoing scheduled pitch maintenance.

The match against Richards Bay is scheduled to begin at 19:30.