Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Greg Etafia has welcomed Stanley Nwabali’s decision to return to Chippa United, insisting regular first-team football is exactly what the Nigerian international needs at this stage of his career.
READ ALSO: Stanley Nwabali Completes Surprise Chippa United Return Five Months After Exit
Nwabali recently completed a surprise return to the Betway Premiership club after spending several months without a team following his departure from Chippa United earlier this year.
Despite attracting interest from clubs in Europe, North Africa and South Africa after his impressive performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, a permanent move failed to materialise before he rejoined his former club.
Etafia believes the reunion is beneficial for both player and club, especially with the new season fast approaching.
“The most important thing for Stanley Nwabali now is to be playing regularly again. As a goalkeeper, confidence comes from being on the pitch consistently,” Etafia said.
The former Moroka Swallows goalkeeper admitted he was not fully aware of the circumstances surrounding Nwabali’s initial departure from Chippa United but noted that both parties have now put the past behind them.
According to Etafia, returning to a familiar environment where the Super Eagles goalkeeper is respected and trusted should help him quickly rediscover his best form.
“Whatever happened before is now in the past. Both the club and the player have decided to work together again, and I believe that is the most important thing moving forward,” he added.
Nwabali established himself as one of South Africa’s top goalkeepers during his first spell at Chippa United before becoming Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the Super Eagles’ run to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final.
The 29-year-old is expected to begin preparations for the new Betway Premiership season immediately, with regular club football also expected to strengthen his position ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming international fixtures under Eric Chelle.
