Former Nigeria goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu has warned Super Eagles first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali that his position with the national team could be at risk if he does not return to regular club football.
Speaking to Vanguard, Shorunmu said Nwabali must “get a club where he can play week in, week out” to maintain consistency. The advice comes as Nwabali remains without a club after parting ways with South African side Chippa United, where he made about 70 appearances since joining from Katsina United in 2022.
Shorunmu, who earned 36 caps for Nigeria and played for Beşiktaş and FC Zürich, stressed that current form is critical for selection under new Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
“If a coach is rebuilding a team, he is likely to look out for players who are busy and will pick them on current form,” Shorunmu said. He added that it does not matter whether Nwabali joins a foreign or home club, “what is important is that he is busy playing.” The 29-year-old rose to prominence during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where his saves helped Nigeria reach the final, and he kept his place for the 2025 tournament as the team finished third.
Reports indicate Nwabali could soon resolve his club situation. According to Soccer Laduma, the goalkeeper is in advanced talks with an unnamed Saudi Arabian club, with negotiations nearing completion.
Shorunmu has previously backed Nwabali’s decision to leave Chippa United, calling it “timely” and urging his agent to secure a deal that guarantees playing time and growth. Former Super Eagles captain William Ekong also said this week that Nwabali “is too much of a good goalkeeper to be without a club” and expressed confidence he will return for the national team.