Rivers United, Ikorodu City battle for Nwabali as Super Eagles future hangs in balance

Nigerian clubs Rivers United and Ikorodu City are both pushing hard to sign Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, Afrik-Foot reports.

This is even as Nwabali’s club future remains uncertain and his place in Nigeria’s national team comes under pressure.

According to Brila, the two top Nigeria Professional Football League sides have made direct moves for the 29-year-old shot-stopper. The former Lobi Stars goalie is currently without a club after leaving Chippa United earlier this month.

Concerns grow over Stanley Nwabali being without a club after leaving Chippa United, especially with important games possibly ahead for Nigeria 🇳🇬. Inactivity can affect the Super Eagles’ number one’s match fitness

Some pundits have suggested a temporary move to the NPFL, with… pic.twitter.com/SxN16RHgvP

— Super Eagles Supporters Club (@official_esclub) February 13, 2026

The reports say Rivers United FC have already offered Nwabali a deal that would keep him at the club until the end of the season. However, there has been no clear answer yet from the goalkeeper or his camp.

At the same time, Ikorodu City FC have also reached out to the former Enyimba FC ace, telling him that joining their squad would be easy to arrange. The Lagos-based side even hinted that he could feature against Rivers United if the move happens quickly.

So far, there is no confirmation of interest from clubs in Europe or Asia, even though the goalkeeper had earlier been linked with teams outside Nigeria. His continued status as a free agent has surprised many, given his strong performances for Nigeria in recent competitions.

Nwabali: Super Eagles place under threat

Nwabali’s situation could now affect his role as first-choice goalkeeper for the Nigeria national football team.

The Super Eagles are expected to play friendly matches against Jordan national football team in March, with Iran also exploring a possible fixture. These games would be the Super Eagles’ first outings of the year since the end of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

If Nwabali remains without a club before those matches, head coach Eric Chelle may have little choice but to turn to other goalkeeping options.

One possible return is Maduka Okoye, who plays for Udinese Calcio and missed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Another name in the frame is Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham AFC, who recently switched his international allegiance to Nigeria and could earn his first cap.

There are also experienced keepers like Francis Uzoho and Amas Obasogie, who filled in during the last AFCON tournament.

With key international games approaching, staying without a club could weaken Nwabali’s grip on the Super Eagles jersey, making a quick decision on his future more important than ever.