Stanley Nwabali has once again been left out of the Super Eagles squad, raising fresh questions about his international future ahead of the 2026 Unity Cup and International friendlies against Poland and Portugal.
Despite Eric Chelle naming separate squads for the upcoming fixtures, Nwabali failed to make either list. Instead, the coach opted for Maduka Okoye, Francis Uzoho, Arthur Okonkwo, and Michael Atata.
The omission marks the second straight international break that Nwabali has been ignored, following his absence from Nigeria’s March friendlies against Iran and Jordan.
Reports suggest the goalkeeper’s current club situation may be behind the decision. The 29-year-old has been without a club since leaving Chippa United in February. His lack of regular football appears to have counted against him.
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Nwabali’s absence also comes at a time when the Super Eagles are introducing new competition in goal, particularly with the arrival of Arthur Okonkwo. The Wrexham goalkeeper has now earned his maiden national team call-up.
Still, Nwabali’s experience with the national team remains significant. The goalkeeper has made 34 appearances for Nigeria and kept 14 clean sheets, establishing himself as one of the country’s most reliable performers.
He has particularly been impressive in AFCON tournaments. Most recently, he helped Nigeria earn a bronze medal in January, after saving penalties from Liverpool‘s Mohammed Salah and Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush.
Whether a return to club football can revive Nwabali’s international chances remains to be seen. But for now, the Super Eagles appear to be looking toward a new era between the sticks.
Asides Nwabali, Ola Aina was not also invited for the Unity Cup and International friendlies. The fullback got injured in Forest’s Europa League clash against Aston Villa and has not played since then.
Kelechi Iheanacho is another major exclusion. His last appearance for the Super Eagles came in last year’s Unity Cup, and there was some hope that he could return to the squad for this year’s tournament.
This is because of his impressive performances for Celtic this season. The striker won the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership title with the club, scoring five goals in just 13 appearances.
Other players omitted include Sadiq Umar who has scored six goals for Valencia this year, and Gift Orban who had nine goal contributions in the Serie A despite Hellas Verona’s relegation.
Yusuf Bamidele is an option that could have made the squad. The Ferencváros forward recorded 15 goals and nine assists in 42 games this season. This includes six goal contributions in 11 Europa League games.
The Super Eagles will take on Zimbabwe in their Unity Cup semifinal clash at the Valley in London. They will then meet either Jamaica or India in the final if they advance. The tournament will run from May 26 to 30.
After that, Nigeria will face Poland and Portugal in international friendlies on June 3 and June 11.
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