Chippa United's Stanley Nwabali under scrutiny as Eric Chelle seeks alternatives

According to SCORENigeria, the 29-year-old has recently struggled to maintain composure during key moments on the pitch. His temper flared during heated exchanges with captain Wilfred Ndidi and defender Calvin Bassey in Nigeria’s final 2026 World Cup qualifier against Benin in Uyo.

"Eric (Chelle) is certainly looking for a replacement for Nwabali. Many have suggested Maduka Okoye, but he doesn’t think he is good enough," a source told the online outlet.

The source added that Chelle had been considering Noah Atubolu of Freiburg as a potential challenger, but the German national team’s recent call-up for Atubolu has complicated matters.

"Certainly, there is something not right with Nwabali. It seems a little success has got into his head, and the only way to deal with this situation is to bring in very worthy competition for him," the source said.

The Chippa United shot stopper had previously cemented himself as Nigeria’s No. 1, taking over from Francis Uzoho at the delayed 2023 AFCON, where the Super Eagles exceeded expectations and reached the final.

With World Cup qualifiers intensifying, Chelle appears determined to ensure the Super Eagles have reliable options between the posts, keeping Nwabali on his toes and maintaining healthy competition for the role.