After terminating his contract in February, he was without regular club football, which froze him out of international football action with coach Eric Chelle relying on Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo.
Nwabali has now rescinded his decision, with the Chilli Boys celebrating the 30-year-old goalkeeper's return to the Eastern Cape ahead of the new season.
“Chippa United Football Club is delighted to welcome Stanley Nwabali back to the Chilli Boys,” the club wrote on social media.
“After taking time away, Stanley Nwabali returns to the Eastern Cape, and we are pleased to welcome him back to the club. His experience, leadership and presence will once again be a valuable addition to the squad as we continue preparations for the season ahead.
“Welcome back, Stanley. We wish you every success in Chippa United colours.”
The former Enyimba and Lobi Stars man rose to prominence with the Super Eagles during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where his outstanding displays helped Nigeria reach the final before losing to hosts Ivory Coast.
Nwabali posted another commanding performance at the 2025 edition, where he notably saved Mohamed Salah’s penalty during the third-place play-off which Nigeria won.
Chippa United were fighting relegation when the Nigerian left, with goalkeeper Dumsani Msibi seizing the opportunity and recording five clean sheets during the closing stages of the campaign.
Nwabali joined the team in 2022 after a brief spell with Nigerian top-flight side Katsina United. In his first spell with the club, he accrued 76 appearances for the South African side with his remarkable performances making him a fans’ favourite.
