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Rabat – Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has criticized football in West Africa, saying local leagues remain below standard compared to those in Morocco, South Africa, and Europe.
Speaking to Brila FM, Nwabali described structural problems that push many players to leave their home leagues.
He pointed out the poor wages and the inability of several clubs to offer professional contracts as key reasons why talent looks abroad for opportunities.
“In West Africa, our leagues are not good enough. We want to go to Europe, we want to go to South Africa, and we want to go to Morocco,” he said.
The Nigerian international explained that financial insecurity is the main driver of that deep-seated desire to leave. Without stable salaries or sponsorship, players cannot rely on their domestic clubs, he argued, stressing that fewer players would feel the need to leave if home leagues were better organized.
Nwabali also pointed to infrastructure and management gaps. He said the difference in facilities and organization between West Africa and other regions makes it harder for players to stay.
“If the league is good, salaries are guaranteed, and there are sponsors, why would a player leave?” he added.
The goalkeeper recently became a free agent after ending his spell with South Africa’s Chippa United in February, shortly after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
He was Nigeria’s starting keeper at the tournament and played in the semi‑final against Morocco, a tense match that ended with Morocco advancing on penalties.
His comments come at a time when many West African players continue to seek careers abroad, underlining the challenges facing local football structures.
Read also: Raja Interested in Nigerian Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali
