‘They have no space’ - Ex-South African goalkeeper sends warning to Nwabali

Former South African goalkeeper Motsoeneng Tshepo has cautioned Super Eagles shot-stopper Stanley Nwabali that he could face a prolonged spell without a club if he sets his sights on joining one of the Premier Soccer League’s traditional powerhouses.

Nwabali became a free agent after mutually terminating his contract with Chippa United, despite having six months remaining on his deal.

The development has sparked speculation linking him with moves to Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns.

Speaking to KickOff, Tshepo suggested Nwabali’s departure may have been influenced by expectations of interest elsewhere, noting that Chippa owner Siviwe Mpengesi is known for allowing players to pursue better opportunities.

However, Tshepo questioned whether the Nigerian international has done enough to prove he is clearly above the PSL level.

He said, “I don’t think Nwabali has moved beyond the PSL. At Chippa, he needed to show without any doubt that he had grown beyond this league. First, he must be a truly outstanding goalkeeper in the PSL before thinking about moving past it.”

Tshepo further questioned where Nwabali would fit among the league’s so-called “big three,”.

He added, “If you sign a foreign goalkeeper, he must be number one. But at Sundowns, what happens to Ronwen? They have no space.”

The former goalkeeper also argued that Nwabali’s form this season has not matched the high standards he previously set.

“Since the start of this season, his performances haven’t been at the level they should be. Maybe after AFCON he expected a move, but that opportunity didn’t come,” he added.