Junior Khanye Says Nwabali Is Not Good Enough for Kaizer Chiefs

Former South African forward, Junior Khanye, has said that Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is overrated and not good enough to play for top South African club, Kaizer Chiefs.

Nwabali has impressed many with his recent performances for Chippa United and Nigeria. However, Khanye believes the 28-year-old is not the right choice for Chiefs.

Speaking to iDiskiTimes, Khanye said, “Nwabali being Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper doesn’t mean he is top quality. Nigeria have strong defenders who cover for him.”

The former Kaizer Chiefs player added, “When I watch him closely, he gives away goals, especially from crosses. He spills the ball and makes basic mistakes.”

Khanye also suggested the club should look elsewhere: “Chiefs need a proper keeper. I like Ricardo Goss – maybe he’s a better option. Nwabali punches the ball too often and lacks the basics of goalkeeping.”

Nwabali, who once played for Enyimba in Nigeria, has been linked with a move away from Chippa United, with Kaizer Chiefs being one of the clubs mentioned.

Despite the criticism, many believe Nwabali has earned his reputation. He became a fan favourite after helping Nigeria reach the 2025 AFCON final, where he nearly won the Golden Glove award. His calm presence brought stability to the Super Eagles after past mistakes by Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho.

While he may not be at the level of goalkeepers like Donnarumma or Alisson Becker, Nwabali remains one of the top goalkeepers in African football today.