Eguma Backs Nwabali For Move To Europe’s Top Leagues

Eguma Backs Nwabali For Move To Europe’s Top Leagues

By Niyi Busari 

Former Enyimba and Rivers United head coach Stanley Eguma has expressed confidence that Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is ready to compete in Europe’s top leagues following his impressive performances at consecutive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Nwabali was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where the Super Eagles finished runners-up, and again at the 2025 edition in Morocco, where the team secured a bronze medal. His consistency and composure between the posts have drawn widespread praise and growing transfer interest.

The 28-year-old recently parted ways with South African Premier Soccer League side Chippa United and is reportedly attracting attention from Raja Casablanca of Morocco and Tanzania’s Simba SC, with the latter believed to be leading the race for his signature.

Speaking to Complete Sports, Eguma said while the final decision rests with the player, he believes Europe should be Nwabali’s next destination.

“It’s his career, and he has the prerogative to choose the club that offers the best welfare and career-enhancing opportunities,” Eguma said.

However, the experienced tactician, who served as assistant coach when Enyimba won the 2004 CAF Champions League, maintained that Nwabali’s recent achievements warrant a move beyond the African continent.

“With two AFCON medals — silver and bronze — as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, I believe Europe should be his next career step,” he added.

Eguma also highlighted the goalkeeper’s qualities, describing him as physically imposing, agile, and mentally sharp.

“He has good height, a strong physical presence, excellent reflexes, and great alertness. In my view, he has little left to prove in Africa,” he said.

Despite his endorsement of a European move, Eguma reiterated that the final choice remains with the player.

“As I said, it’s his career. The next club he chooses is entirely his decision,” he concluded.